Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Cutting your car keys is an essential service that will save you from a significant expense at the dealer. It also stops you from being stranded without a functioning key.
Modern keys contain transponders which require programming to work with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the equipment to make these key replacements for a fraction of the price.
What kind of key will I require?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encryption, and is just a piece of metal that fits into locks. They are commonly used on older vehicles.
Keys with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and can be identified by having two or four sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are harder to pick and can help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.
Another type of key is a transponder, which contains an embedded microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This reduces the risk of theft since the key is only compatible with that specific vehicle. Transponder keys may be a bit more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.
When you need to replace a key and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store nearest you will typically have the needed parts and know-how. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the car's computer to function. This requires special software and tools. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also look online for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much less cost than what you'd pay at a dealer. Before you purchase make a purchase, you should be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so be sure you use a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They'll need the year, make and model of your vehicle to give you a suitable key blank, which they cut using precision machinery on-site. However, some modern automobile keys, like fobs, also come with transponder chips that require special programming specific to the vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they don't have the equipment needed to clone the chip or program it.
The typical key duplication procedure for a standard auto key involves an associate choosing the appropriate blank key and positioning it next to your existing key as an example. agree with this of the key are mapped by a machine in order to create duplicates. It is recommended to bring your original key in case it has a few minor scratches as these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys for most cars. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your car in hand along with the remote fob or the key to ensure that we choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if your 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. Making a new key for a car is more complex than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires specialised equipment, which can only be found in key cutters that have the correct tools.
The majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chips embedded in the key fob. This chip requires to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security feature that started in the 1990's to stop rising car theft around Australia and has since become the standard for all new cars currently sold.
This means a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut before being programmed to the specific car you own, which is a lengthy and costly procedure. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to handle this for you. All you need is your current working key you wish to have duplicated and, if you can, 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 a spare key cut for your car's push button start that includes the key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle separately). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. All you have to bring is your car keys and, if possible the year, make and models of both keys so we can identify which key has a transponder chip, and be able to program it correctly to your car.
Can I cut a key by myself?
Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They make use of a machine that tracks the original contours of the key to make an exact duplicate. This method is suitable for keys older than not include a chip. Modern automobiles require the key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this kind of job as they have the necessary equipment and tools.
You can also visit the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other keys with specializations must be mailed in order to be processed. Make sure that you aren't trying to make a copy of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll need to contact an experienced locksmith if this is the situation.
A locksmith can also provide the convenience of coming directly to your home or office. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. It is not necessary to go to the store and stand in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology however, key cutting is not their expertise. Dealerships are large corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to protect their bottom lines. They report to car companies who report to shareholders and investors who anticipate monetary gains each quarter. This is not conducive to providing high-quality customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a key made by a locksmith?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service key copy kiosks However, the best option is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced and have the equipment to duplicate all kinds of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut using a key duplicator machine, using the original key serving as a template. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's cutting blade, resulting in an exact duplicate of the original. Certain types of keys like fobs and car keys require a longer process because they have to be programmed for your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a security measure. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied, but it may take longer as locksmiths will need to inspect the key and ensure it's not damaged.
Other keys could be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is typically because they have a unique mechanical feature or a unique shape. This is to prevent the keys from being used to steal items or entering secure areas.
You'll need to contact an area locksmith to determine if they can cut these special keys. You can also check their website to see if the locksmith has the required equipment and know-how. If they can make them, you'll have to pay a bit more if you were to get an ordinary key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it is more affordable and less stressful to replace a lost key.