The One Car Keys Cut Mistake That Every Beginner Makes
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealer. This can also protect you from being stranded in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys contain transponders which require programming in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the equipment to make these key replacements for a fraction of the price.
What type of key do I need?
There are several different types of keys. this content of key is the standard key. It does not include any encoding, and it is just a piece of metal that fits into locks. Keys like these are typically used in older cars.
A four-sided or double-sided key is a safer option and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are difficult to pick, and they can be used to in preventing burglaries as they require more strength to open locks.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They are equipped with a microchip programmed to start your vehicle. This technology reduces theft since the key can only be used on the specific vehicle. Transponder keys can be a bit more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys but they offer increased security.
If you require replacement of a key or a lock, the AutoZone store closest to you will have the required parts and know-how. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.
Some modern vehicles have remote fobs that have to be programmed by the car's computer and requires special tools and software. Many people prefer to call their dealer for assistance but it's not always required. You can also look online for after market replacement keys and fobs that are readily available at a much lower cost than what you'd find at a dealership. Before you buy, be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so be sure you use a reliable source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. They will need to know the year and make and model of your car to give you a suitable key blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. However, some modern automobile keys like fobs also have built-in transponder chips which require special programming specific to the vehicle. You might be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment to clone or program the chip.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key is a partner selecting the correct blank and putting it on your current key to serve as an outline. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine to create a duplicate. It is recommended to bring your original key if it has a few tiny scratches, as these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is essential to know the year and make of your vehicle, along with your key or remote so that we can select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores will also assist with the process of programming the new key to your vehicle, if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a flawless cut. Making a new key to cars is more difficult than copying one that already exists. It requires specialized equipment which can only be found in key cutters equipped with the correct tools.
Most automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chip integrated into the key fob. It requires to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the increasing rate of car theft in Australia. It has since become standard for all new vehicles sold in the present.
This can be a time-consuming and expensive procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A replacement or spare key must be laser cut, and then programmed for your specific car. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you and all you need is your current working key you want duplicated and, if you can the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can identify the right code to program your new key.
It may be worth getting an extra key designed for your push-button start car. This key will have the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need is your car key and, if possible the year, makes and models of both keys so that we can determine the key that has a transponder chip, and get it correctly programmed to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a small cost. They make use of a machine that tracks the original contours of the key to create an exact copy. This works for keys older than with no chip. Modern vehicles, however, require a key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.
You can also go to a kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but don't cut every kind of key. Keys that are common can be copied, whereas other specialty keys need to be mailed in for processing. It is not recommended to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". You'll need to contact an experienced locksmith if this is the situation.
A locksmith can also offer a more convenient option by coming directly to your home or office. They can cut a key and modify your fob, if required. This will save you the inconvenience of having to drive to a shop and wait in line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles, but not necessarily in keys. The process of cutting keys may not be their expertise. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations who operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who report to investors and shareholders that expect monetary gains every quarter. This does not help in providing good customer service, especially when it comes time to cut the car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by a locksmith?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks for copying keys However, the best place to go is a locksmith firm. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. They can also help you program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
The majority of keys are cut using a specific key duplicator machine, using the original key serving as a template. A blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys move simultaneously across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key. For some key types, like car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just a security measure to prevent the copying of keys that are not authorized. It doesn't mean that keys cannot be copied. However, it may take longer because a locksmith has to inspect the key to make sure it is not tampered.
Other keys can be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is typically because they have a unique mechanical feature or a strange shape. This is done to prevent the keys from being used for stealing items or getting into secure locations.
You'll need to call a local locksmith to determine if they can cut these special keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith is equipped with the equipment and experience required. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than having a standard key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be less expensive and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.