15 Things You're Not Sure Of About Car Keys Cut
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that can save you from a significant expense at the dealership. It also keeps you from being stranded without a working key.
Modern keys include transponders that must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the tools to produce these key replacements at only a fraction of the cost.
What kind of key will I require?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It does not have any encoding, and it is just a piece metal that fits inside locks. They are commonly found on older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is a more secure option and can be identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open the locks.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They have an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your car. This reduces the risk of theft since the key can only be used with a particular vehicle. Transponder keys can be slightly more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys but they offer increased security.
The majority times, when you require a replacement key, your local AutoZone store will have the parts and know-how to replace it quickly. Simply provide them with the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take care of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have remote controls that need to be programmed into the car's computer to function. This requires special software and tools. Many people contact their dealer for this service, but it's not always required. You can also search online for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at much less cost than what you'd pay at a dealer. But, before you do this, it's important to note that these keyfobs are susceptible to being compromised, so make sure you use a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To give you the right blank for your key they must know the year of your car and make, as well as the model. They will then cut it on the spot using precision machinery. Certain modern car keys, such as fobs, have transponder chips that require specialized programming. You might be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the tools to duplicate or program the chip.
The typical key duplication procedure for a traditional auto key involves an associate choosing the correct blank key and placing it next to your existing key to serve as an example. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has any small scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys on most cars. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your car in hand along with the key or remote fob to ensure that we select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if your vehicle is a push-button start model.
What equipment do I need?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is more complicated than simply copying an existing key and requires special equipment that is only available at authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools to handle the job.
Most cars sold in Australia have a transponder chip integrated into the key fob. This chip needs to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. 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 vehicles sold today.
It can be a lengthy and costly procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A replacement or spare key needs to be laser cut, and then programmed to match your specific vehicle. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to do this for you and all you need is the working key that you want duplicated and, if possible, the year, make and model of your car so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it could be beneficial to have an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature that comes with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle separately). Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a quick and simple process at many Mister Minit stores. You'll need your vehicle key, and if possible the year the make and model of the keys, so that we can determine which key is transponder and then program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a fee. They use an instrument that follows the original contours of the key to create an exact replica. This works for older keys that do not have a chip. nearest key cutting , however, require the key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this type of task, because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also go to an area that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but don't cut every kind of key. Certain keys are able to be copied, but other keys that are special need to be mailed in for processing. Be sure you're not trying 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 is more convenient when visiting your workplace or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob if needed. You will not have to drive to the store and wait in an endless line.
Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. The key-cutting process may not be their expertise. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that operate according to strict policies to serve their bottom lines. They report to car companies that then provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These circumstances are not conducive to providing good customer service when cutting keys to cars.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service kiosks for copying keys, but the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate all types of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut by a special key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. The blank key is positioned on the other side and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's specialized cutting blade, creating an exact duplicate of the original. For some key types, like car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however it's just an additional security measure to stop unauthorised copying. This does not mean the key can't be copied however, it could take longer as locksmiths must inspect the key to ensure it's not tampered with.
Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. This is typically because they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a unique shape, and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal items or gain access into secure locations.
You will need to contact the local locksmith to find out if they can cut these specialty keys. You can also go to their website to check if the locksmith has the equipment and experience required. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at a hardware store or at a self-service kiosk, but it will be less expensive and less stress-inducing than having to replace keys for your car that have been lost.