Getting a New Car Key Cut
A locksmith for your vehicle can save you money if you compare it to dealers. They can make replacements keys for all types of vehicles and models, including fobs that require programming.
Laser-cut keys have thicker shanks with smaller grooves. They also have transponder chips that need to be programmed to your car. This is a more complicated process and takes longer, however, it is still cheaper than visiting a dealership.
What kind of keys do I Need?
The type of keys you own is important when it comes to replacing lost car keys. If your car has traditional keys and is older, you can get an alternative in a variety of locksmith or hardware stores. Keys of this kind have simple, precise ridges that are cut into one side, and are simple to duplicate.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. They have an embedded transponder chip which sends a signal to the vehicle after they are inserted into the ignition. The system is designed to ensure that anyone who is not authorized to use it cannot start your vehicle or open doors. It’s more expensive to replace a smart lock if you lose it since they need an electronic chip. It’s a good idea to keep a spare key in your possession and leave one with a family member or family member in case you lose your original.
Depending on your car’s model and make You might or may not be able to replace the smart key missing by a replacement from an aftermarket. If your car does not have this technology, you will have to call an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. They will need to have proof of ownership as well as an ID photo to purchase the new key for you, and they’ll need to program it into your car’s security system.
This process can take up to an hour. It’s much more expensive than a standard copy of the key. The cost for laser-cut keys will vary between $50 and $100.
While you wait for your new key, don’t fret too much about it. Always keep a spare key in your pocket, or with a trusted companion. Keep your eye on the keychain whenever it moves.
Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if you want to save money. You can often get these keys for 75 % less than what the dealer would charge. They will still need to be cut and programmed for your specific vehicle, however, so make sure you call around for the best prices in your area.
How Much Time Will It Take?
If you are the type who is at risk of losing or forgetting your keys, it might be time to purchase an extra. A spare key can help you avoid the burden of paying for a locksmith or take your vehicle to the dealership when you get locked out and require an alternative key. It could take between several minutes to several hours to make an replacement key.
If you lose your keys it could cost you up to $200. You’ll need to pay to have your car tow by a dealer who will order and program the new key. Additionally, you will be charged for the labor cost. Spending money on a spare key now is more affordable than paying for the replacement later.
Traditional car keys can be made quickly by a locksmith, or at a hardware store. They typically have slightly larger shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you need to replace the fob of your cutting key it’ll take longer because they will need to be programmed into the computer of your vehicle. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases but it’s best to call ahead first to determine the cost and how long it will take them to complete the job.
The majority of Mister Minit locations have the expertise and the equipment to duplicate your car fob or key. You’ll be required to bring the original key you wish to duplicate along with the year, make, and MODEL of your car to determine the kind of transponder chip the key has. The year, model and make will also assist us in determining what type of key fobs you require.
If you are concerned about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer that makes the car brand you drive. If you need the replacement of your key fob, it may take longer since the dealer will have to program it using your car’s computer. They’ll need proof of ownership such as your registration or title documents to do this. You can also purchase an extra third-party car key and then reprogram it yourself. You’ll need to consult the owner’s manual of your car to learn how to do this because it differs from one manufacturer to the next.
Are There Any Limitations on Getting a Key Made Without the Original?
If you own an older car you could get a standard metal key made by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, an hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not have specialized electronic components, such as chips. However, newer vehicles may have transponder keys that require an exclusive laser key-cutting key device called a sidewinder to create copies of the keys. These newer keys can also include a programmed chip that stops your vehicle from being started if the original key is not in close proximity to ignition.
You will need to visit an auto dealer if your vehicle has an advanced key. A replacement automotive key cutting that is not the original will be created. This can be expensive especially if you need to take your vehicle to the dealer in order to program the key.
Calling a locksmith is a cheaper alternative. They can cut and program a duplicate of your car key cutting price key for about half the price of the dealership. This is something you should do before you lose your keys. It will save you money in the long run if you are unable to locate them.
Can I Get a Key made at AutoZone?
Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they rely on keys to open the car and start it. If you lose your keys and need to replace it, it is not as easy as a trip to the self-service kiosk in the mall and having it cut. Instead, modern keys for cars must be programmed to work with the vehicle’s security system and must have a transponder chip inside that is unique to the vehicle you own.
Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to offer these services. If you have a key fob, or even a traditional key an associate from the store, they will assist you in programming it to your car onsite.
A machine is used to copy the contours from a working original car key. A blank key is placed on one side of the duplication machine, and an existing key is on the other. Both are held in place with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working and blank key back and forth and cuts out the desired shape. The result is an original key that matches exactly the dimensions of the original.
When it comes time to make an extra car key, however, things get more complicated. The year and make of your vehicle will determine what type of automobile key cutting near me you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith in order to work in your car. Many dealerships have the necessary equipment, but you can also locate a locksmith who can complete the task for a lesser cost. Make sure to verify if the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You can usually find replacement keys online at less than going to a dealership to cut them and programmed. You can locate them by searching “(your year and make)” on websites specifically designed for this purpose.
You’ll need to take your key fob or more complex keys to a locksmith or dealer to have it replaced. It is possible to have a key cut by providing the VIN and proof of ownership, but you’ll have to pay for programming. The best way to avoid these costs is to have a spare key manufactured now, so you can use it in case of an emergency.