Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut by code keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being stranded if your key breaks.
Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the tools to create these key replacements at only a fraction of the cost.
What type of key will I need?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic is the traditional key, which isn’t encoded or programming. It is simply cut out of metal and fits inside to a lock. These keys are commonly found in older automobiles.
A double-sided or four-sided key is a safer option and can be identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can help prevent break-ins because they require more strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They contain an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your car. This technology reduces theft because the key can only be used with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide additional security.
If you are looking to replace a key or a lock, the AutoZone store closest to you will usually have the needed parts and know-how. All you have to do is give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the car’s computer in order to work. This requires special tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also search on the internet for replacement keys and fobs that are readily available at a much lower cost than what you’d pay at a dealership. Before you buy take a look, make sure you are aware that these keys are hackable, so make sure you use a reliable source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths are able cut standard keys for cars. To supply you with the correct key blank, they will need to know the year and make, along with the model. They will then cut it on site with precision equipment. However, some modern car keys like fobs also come with transponder chips that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they don’t have the equipment needed to copy the chip or program it.
The standard procedure for duplicating keys for a standard auto key involves an associate choosing the appropriate blank key and placing it next to your existing key to serve as an example. The key’s original contours are mapped by a machine to create a duplicate. It’s best to bring your original key if it has a few tiny scratches as they will be included in the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specific equipment required to duplicate most automobiles. It is beneficial to have the year model, make and year of your car in hand together with your remote fob or the key so that we can accurately select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also assist by programming the new key cutting services into your vehicle, if it’s one with a push button start feature.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precision tools to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new key for automobiles is more complicated than replicating one already in use. It requires special equipment which is only available in key cutters that have the right tools.
The key fobs on the majority of vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder which must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security measure that was introduced in the 1990’s to stop rising car theft around Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars that are sold today.
This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be cut using lasers and programmed to the specific car key cutting near me you own, which is a costly and time-consuming procedure. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the required equipment and know-how to duplicate the key you have. All you need to do is bring your key from the previous one and, if possible provide the year, model and make of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
It might be worthwhile getting an extra key for your car that has a push button start. This key will have the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. Finding a replacement or spare key cut and programmed is a simple and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. You will need your car key, and, if it is possible the year the make and model of both keys, so that we can identify which key contains a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut by myself?
Many big-box stores and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a small cost. They employ machines to follow the contours of your original key to create an exact replica. This is applicable to older keys that do not have a chip. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a difficult job that requires specialized equipment and expertise. This type of work is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools required.
You can also visit an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but do not cut every kind of key. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other keys that are special have to be mailed in order to be processed. Make sure that you aren’t trying to make a copy of a key that has “Do Not Duplicate” on it. If this is the case, you’ll have to contact a locksmith assistance.
A locksmith can also provide the convenience of arriving at your office or home. They can cut a key and even modify your fob, if required. You won’t have to drive to the store and stand in a long line.
Dealerships know cars, but they don’t necessarily know anything about keys. The process of cutting keys may not be their expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations that have strict rules to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, who report to shareholders and investors who anticipate monetary gains each quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to providing good customer service when cutting keys to cars.
Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys however the best option is a locksmith firm. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut most standard keys. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are pushed through the machine’s specially-designed cutting blade, which creates an exact duplicate of the original. For some key types such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked “do duplicate” to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a security measure. This doesn’t mean that the key can’t be copied. However, it may take longer because locksmiths have to examine the key to make sure it is not tampered.
Other keys may be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be cut or copied. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape, and is done to stop them from being used to steal objects or get into secured locations.
You will need to contact an area locksmith key cutting to determine whether they are able cut these specialty keys. You can also visit their website to determine whether the locksmith has the required equipment and know-how. If they can make them, you’ll have to pay a bit more than the cost of an ordinary key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosk. But, it’s cheaper and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.