Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that will help you avoid a large expense at the dealer. This can also protect you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys come with transponders that must be programmed to match the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys at the lowest cost.
What kind of key do I need?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional van key cutting. It does not have any encryption, and is just a piece metal that fits inside a lock. These keys are commonly used in older cars.
Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and can be identified by having two or four sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can help prevent break-ins because they require more strength to open the lock.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that is equipped with a microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This reduces the risk of theft since the key can only be used with a specific vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide greater security.
If you are looking to replace keys or a lock, the AutoZone store nearest you will have the necessary parts and know-how. Simply provide them with the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest.
Some modern vehicles have remote fobs that need to be programmed by the vehicle’s computer to work and requires special tools and software. Many people prefer to call their dealer to get this service, it’s not always necessary. You can also search 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. However, before you do this be aware that these keyfobs are susceptible to being stolen, so be sure to use a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. To supply you with the right key blank, they will need to know the year of your car and make, as well as the model. They can then cut it on the spot using precision machinery. However, some modern automobile keys, such as fobs, have built-in transponder chips which require special programming specific to the vehicle. It is possible to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won’t have the equipment to duplicate or program the chip.
The most common method of duplication for a traditional auto key is a user choosing the correct blank key, and placing it next to your existing key to serve as a template. A machine then traces the original contours of the key to create a duplicate. It is recommended to bring your original key in the event that it has a few small scratches as these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of automobiles. It is crucial to provide the year and make of your vehicle along with your remote or vw key cut by vin near me so that we can select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is one with a push-button start feature.
What equipment do I need?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new key for automobiles is more complicated than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires special equipment that is only available in key cutters equipped with the right tools.
The key fobs on the majority of vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 90’s to fight rising car theft around Australia and has since become the standard for all new cars sold today.
This can be a time-consuming and expensive process. A replacement or spare key must be laser cut, then programmed for your specific car. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you. All you need is your current working key that you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, make and model of your vehicle to help us identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a newer car, it could be worth having a spare car key cutting near me key cut for your push button start car that includes a key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle separately). Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a quick and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. You’ll need your vehicle key, and if you can, the year the make and model of both keys, so we can identify which key contains transponder and then program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They use an instrument that follows the original contours of your key to make an exact duplicate. This is applicable to older keys with no chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task and requires special equipment and knowledge. This type of job is best for locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment required.
You can also go to a key-cutting kiosk, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they do not cut all kinds of keys. Some common keys can be copied, while other keys that are special need to be mailed to be processed. Be sure to avoid attempting to make a copy of a key with “Do Not Duplicate” on it. If this is the case, you’ll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can also offer the convenience of arriving at your home or office. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, should it be required. This will eliminate the hassle of having to drive to a store and wait in the line.
Dealerships are experts on cars but they don’t know everything about keys. The process of cutting keys isn’t their area of expertise. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that operate according to strict guidelines to protect their bottom lines. They report to car companies who report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. This is not conducive places to get keys cut near me providing excellent customer service, particularly when it is time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a locksmith cut a key for me?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service key copy kiosks, but the best place to go is a locksmith firm. They are licensed and experienced, and have the necessary equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as the template. The blank key is put on the opposite side and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine’s specially-designed cutting blade, resulting in a duplicate of the original. For certain types of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer due to the fact that they must be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys have a “do not duplicate” mark on them, but this is merely an additional security measure to stop the copying of keys that are not authorized. However, this doesn’t mean the key cannot be copied however, it could take more time because locksmiths must look over the key and ensure it’s not tampered with.
Other keys can be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. It is usually because they have a distinct mechanical feature or a unique shape. This is to stop the keys from being used to steal items or gaining access to secure locations.
You’ll need to call the local locksmith to determine if they can cut these keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith is equipped with the necessary equipment and expertise. If they do, expect to pay a little more than having a standard key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it will be less expensive and less stress-inducing than having to replace the car key that was lost.