Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is important to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealership. This will also keep you from being left stranded if your key breaks.
Modern keys feature transponders that have to be programmed to match the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone can replace these keys at an affordable cost.
What type of key will I need?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not have any encoder, and is just a piece metal that fits inside locks. They are commonly found on older vehicles.
A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure and can be identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help stop burglaries since they require more strength to open the locks.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that is equipped with a microchip that is programmed to turn on the car. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key can only be used with a particular vehicle. Transponder keys can be a bit more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys, but they provide greater security.
Most of the time, if you require a replacement key, your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and knowledge to do it right away. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with a remote fob that must be programmed with the vehicle's computer with specialized tools and software. Although many prefer to call their dealer to get this service but it's not always required. You can also search online for after market replacement keys or fobs for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. But, before you start looking be aware that these keyfobs could be stolen, so be sure to go with a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year and make of your car to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it using precision machinery on-site. Some modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require specialized programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy these keys, but they will not have the equipment needed to clone the chip or program it.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a standard car key is a partner selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against the key you have already used as an example. The machine then follows the original contours of your key to create a duplicate. Bring your original key in case it has any small scratches. These will be added to your new key.
Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is beneficial to have the year model, make and year of your car in hand together with your remote fob or the key so that we can accurately choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if your car is one with a push-button start feature.
What equipment do I need?
Modern ignitions require precise tools to ensure a perfect cut. The process of cutting the new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing one and requires special equipment that is only available at authorized key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores equipped with the appropriate tools for the task.
Most vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder chips that is integrated into the key fob that needs to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 1990's to combat the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles currently sold.
This means a spare or replacement key needs to be cut using lasers and programmed to the specific car you own, which is a time-consuming and expensive procedure. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to handle this for you. All you need is the current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
It could be worthwhile to get an extra key for your car that has a push button start. The key will come with a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you have to bring is your car key and, if possible 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 car.
Can I cut a key by myself?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers offer the service of cutting keys for a fee. They make use of a machine to track the contours of the original key to make a precise replica. This method is suitable for keys older than not include chips. Modern vehicles, however, require keys to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job as they have the necessary equipment and tools.
You may also visit a key-cutting kiosk, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but don't cut every kind of key. laser key cutting near me are able to be copied, whereas other specialty keys need to be sent 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 need contact a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your home or workplace. They can cut a key and even modify your fob, if required. This will eliminate the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in the line.
Dealerships are experts on cars, but they don't necessarily know anything about keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts but cutting keys is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are large companies that operate according to strict policies to serve their bottom line. They report to car companies that, in turn, provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to good customer service when cutting car keys.
Where can I get a locksmith cut me a key?
Locksmith firms are the best choice. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. 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 original key can be used as a template to cut standard keys. A blank key is positioned on the other side, and both keys are moved through the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. For certain types of keys such as 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 certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. This does not mean the key isn't readable however it could take more time because locksmiths must look over the key and ensure that it's not altered.
Other keys can be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape and is intended to stop them from being used to steal objects or get into secure areas.
For these keys, you will have to contact the local locksmith or go to their website to determine if they have the equipment and expertise to cut them. If they can, you will pay a bit more the cost of an ordinary key cut at a hardware shop or a self-service kiosk. However, it's easier and less expensive to replace the key that has been lost.