Why We Love Get Car Key Cut (And You Should Also!)
Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional service for cutting car keys ensures the smoothest start and helps avoid possible issues. They employ advanced equipment to guarantee precision and offer warranties on their services.
For most modern cars it is a transponder chip that is required in the key fob. These are sophisticated electronic devices that must be programmed by a dealership or automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thought you might have is to visit your dealer if you've lost your key or your key fob is damaged. The dealer is the official dealer for your vehicle so they should have the ability to give you an extra key. You may be surprised by how costly these services could be. There are plenty of other options to help you save money on the replacement of your key.
While car dealerships offer a wide selection of keys for cars and key fobs but they usually have higher prices than other stores. They might not be able to create the type of key you require. Certain cars of recent years require laser-cut keys that requires specialized equipment to duplicate programming, create, and duplicate. The majority of locksmiths do not provide this service and must outsource the process.
Home improvement stores that provide key-making services are an excellent alternative to dealerships. Most hardware stores carry a large variety of blanks for various types of keys for cars, so they are able to meet the majority of requirements. These stores are usually cheaper than dealerships.
In addition to providing a wide variety of car key blanks home improvement stores also have the equipment and expertise to make replacement keys and key fobs. They have the ability to create laser-cut keys, which are much harder to copy than traditional metal keys. They can also assist you to change the fobs you have, should you require it.
Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA can also create replacement keys for cars. They have the tools to make transponder car keys and key fobs as well standard house keys. You'll need to call ahead if you want keys made.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, also have key-making services. You can even get a key fob or car key made for less than 15 dollars at the majority of stores! These stores offer a wide range of blanks and will cut and program your key for you. However, car keys cut and programmed is only possible if your original key has a chip in it and can be programmed with the vehicle's system.
Locksmiths
There's never a good moment to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys the best thing you can do is to call an emergency locksmith. They will quickly cut and replace your keys. In many places automotive locksmiths are available 24/7 assistance to help out when you're in a pinch. They can cut any key, which includes transponder keys and regular keys. They also manage VAT systems on newer automobiles.
Most AutoZone stores can repair or replace your car keys. The process is quite simple: an associate selects the appropriate key blank based on your year model, make, and year Then, a machine is used to trace the original contours of your current key. This ensures that your new key fits perfectly. If your key is equipped with an embedded computer chip, the fob, it will need to be programmed.
Some auto locksmiths are equipped with the ability to reprogram your key for less than the dealership. They can also offer an expedited turnaround time, which is great for those in urgent need of help. However, an outside locksmith might not be able to operate on the most sophisticated cars, such as the ones that have smart keys.
Walmart charges $10 on average to cut a car keys. This is a less expensive alternative if you require a duplicate key. Keep in mind that keys made by machines are less likely than hand-made ones to last and will get older. If you want your spare keys to last for a long time, it's better to hire the services of an emergency locksmith.
Some modern cars come with a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. These are the most sought-after and convenient keys, but they're also the hardest to replace when you don't have an original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart-key but you'll need proof of ownership, such as a registration, title or purchase paperwork. You may need to pay a tow truck cost to return your vehicle to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Online key-by VIN suppliers are a great alternative if you cannot get to a locksmith or dealership. These companies make keys for replacement that is a factory original using the VIN number. They charge less than a locksmith or dealer however, you'll need an automotive technician to connect the key to your vehicle.
Most cars built from 1990 and later include a transponder chip which must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to function. This is why it's crucial to use a car's key code instead of the VIN when requesting a key from an online key-by-VIN supplier. If you opt to use the VIN it's likely that the key won't work if the ignition has been replaced or the door locks have been changed.
Be aware that even though key-by-VIN providers online can cut keys, they aren't able to send you a programmed key for your car. You will still need an auto technician to complete this task, so make sure to factor this additional cost into your overall budget when deciding on this option.
The clear winners when it comes to precision are locksmiths, dealers, and online key-by VIN suppliers. They all cut their keys by code, which means you get the genuine OEM cut key. Contrary to this, big box stores only cut their keys using an automated machine, which can become less accurate over time, and can result in a key that does not perform as expected.
A key purchased online is more expensive than one obtained from a reputable locksmith or dealer. Most online resellers are sourced from outside the country and employ poor quality components and construction methods. Furthermore, you will not get any kind of warranty or support in the event that something happens to the key.
It is crucial to have a supply on hand of transponders, keys, blank keys and remotes for each type of vehicle you work with. You can save time and money by using OEM websites of the manufacturers to find keys for cars that are based on VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
In this day and age of online shopping, you might believe that there is no reason to leave the security of your home. However it is true that not all shopping experiences are created to be the same. Some, like getting your car key cut are more effective in person than via on a mouse. A lot of big box stores have the necessary equipment and know-how to make your key. While these stores may not be as reliable as a locksmith or an online key-by-VIN provider, they do offer the benefit of being convenient and affordable.
A car parts store is the most common location to have your key cut. If you own a standard key that does not include chips, this is a quick and simple procedure. These stores usually have key cutting machines that can replicate the contours of your current key within a few minutes.
Another option is to go to a chain hardware store like Ace Hardware. These chains have key cutting machines and can copy most types. If you own an older key that is part of a key fob, or is equipped with a chip the chain won't be able to assist.
A few of the more specialist hardware stores, like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability of doing key copies based on chip technology. However, you should call ahead to the store closest to you and ask whether they can create this kind of key for you before you head over.
You should visit the nearest AutoZone if you have a key with high security. They have the tools, expertise and technology to duplicate most types of high-security keys, including those that are integrated into key fobs. A representative will select the right key blank for the year and make of your vehicle and then use a key-cutting machine to copy your original contours. It will take a little longer than a standard key, but it will give you the assurance that your keys are secure if it gets lost or stolen.