Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Car Keys Cut?
Where to Get Car Keys Cut It is crucial to get your car keys cut. This will help you save money at the dealer. It also prevents you from being stranded without a functioning key. Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys at an affordable cost. What car key cutting cost of key do I need? There are many different types of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encoder, and is just a piece metal that fits into the lock. Keys like these are typically found in older automobiles. Keys that are double-sided or four-sided are more secure and can be identified by having four or two sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require more strength to open the lock. Another type of key is a transponder, which contains a microchip which is programmed to start the car. This technology reduces theft since the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide additional security. Most of the time, when you require a new key the local AutoZone store will have the parts and know-how to replace it immediately. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you. Some modern vehicles have remote fobs that need to be programmed by the vehicle's computer to work with specialized tools and software. Many people contact their dealer to get this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. However, before you make this purchase, it's important to note that these keyfobs are susceptible to being stolen, so be sure to choose a reliable source. Where can I get a key cut? Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To supply you with the correct key blank they must know the year and make, along with the model. They will then cut it on site with precision equipment. However, certain modern car keys, such as fobs, come with transponder chips that require special programming specific to the vehicle. You may be able to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment to duplicate or program the chip. 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 a template. The machine then follows the original contours of your key to create a duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key if it has a few tiny scratches since they will be used to create the new key. Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is beneficial to have the year, make and model of your car handy along with the remote fob or key so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can assist with the additional step of programming the new key to your vehicle, if it's one with a push button start feature. What equipment will I require? Modern key blades require specialised precise tools to guarantee the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to a car is more complex than replicating one already in use. It requires special equipment, which is only available in key cutters with the correct tools. The key fobs in the majority of vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder that must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 1990's to stop increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new cars that are sold today. This means a spare or replacement key will have to be cut using lasers and programmed to the specific car you own, which can be a costly and time-consuming procedure. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you. All you need is the working key you want duplicated and, if possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your car to help us identify the right code to program your new key. It could be worthwhile to get an extra key for your push-button start car. This key will include a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. All you need is your car key and, if you can, the year, makes and models of both keys so that we can identify the key that has a transponder chip and be able to program it correctly to your vehicle. Can I cut a key on my own? auto key cutting or big box retailers offer cutting keys for a small fee. They make use of a machine that tracks the contours of your original key to produce a exact replica. This method works for older keys that do not have a chip. Modern cars require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated job that requires specialized equipment and skills. This kind of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment needed. You can also go to the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other specialty keys must be sent to be processed. Be sure you're not trying to make a copy of a key that has “Do Not Duplicate” on it. You'll need to call a professional locksmith if this is the situation. A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or work. They can quickly cut a key and even reprogram your fob if necessary. This will avoid the inconvenience of having to drive to a store and stand in line. Dealerships are experts in automobiles but not necessarily in keys. The process of cutting keys may not be their expertise. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large companies that adhere to strict policies to serve their bottom line. They report to car companies, who report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to good customer service when cutting car keys. Where can I get a key cut by a locksmith? Locksmith services are the best choice. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip. The original key is used as a template to cut standard keys. A blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys move simultaneously across the machine's specialized cutter and create a copy of the original key. For some key types, like car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. Some keys are marked with a “do not duplicate” mark on them, but it's just an extra measure to protect against unauthorized copying. This does not mean the key isn't readable however, it could take longer as locksmiths must look over the key and make sure it's not damaged. Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is typically because they have a unique mechanical feature or have a peculiar shape. This is done to stop keys from being used to steal items or entering secure areas. For these keys, you'll need to speak with the local locksmith or go to their website to check if they have the equipment and know-how to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than a standard key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.