Here's A Few Facts About Car Keys Cut
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is a crucial service that can save you from a significant expense at the dealership. It also keeps you from getting stuck without a functioning key.
Modern keys include transponders that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the equipment to produce these key replacements at a fraction of the price.
What kind of key do I require?
There are many different types of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encryption, and is merely a piece of metal that fits inside the lock. These keys are commonly used in older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are harder to pick, and they can be used to prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that has an embedded microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology can help reduce theft since the key can only be used on that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.
If you require replacement of keys and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store nearest you will have the required parts and know-how. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will handle it for you.
Some modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed using the vehicle's computer and requires special tools and software. Although many prefer to contact their dealership for assistance, it's not always necessary. You can also search online for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at a lower cost than you'd spend at a dealership. However, before you start looking be aware that these keyfobs can be hacked so be sure to choose a reliable source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. They will need to know the year and make of your car to provide you with the correct key blank, which they cut using precision machinery on-site. However, some modern car keys, such as fobs, come with transponder chips that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. You may be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the tools to reprogram or clone the chip.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a car key of the traditional type is a partner selecting the correct blank and putting it on the key you have already used as an example. The key's original contours are then traced by a machine to make duplicates. It's best to bring your original key if 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 essential to know the year and make of your vehicle along with your key or remote so that we can select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores will also assist with the additional step of programming the new key for your vehicle, if it's one with a push button start feature.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. The process of cutting the new car key is much more complicated than simply copying one from an existing one and requires special equipment that is only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools for the task.
The majority of automobiles sold in Australia have a transponder chip embedded in the key fob that must be programmed into your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security measure that started in the 90's to fight the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles that are sold today.
It can be a lengthy and costly procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A spare or replacement key must be laser cut, and then programmed for your specific car. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to handle this for you. All you need is your current working key you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, make and model of your car to help us identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, it might be worth having an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature that comes with the key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle independently). Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a quick and easy process at the majority of Mister Minit stores. You'll need your vehicle key, and if you can, the year, make and model of both keys, so that we can identify which key contains transponder and then program it to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut by myself?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers offer cutting keys for a small fee. They employ a machine that tracks the contours of your original key to produce a exact replica. This is applicable to older keys that do not have a chip. Modern vehicles require the key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specific equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this type of task, because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also visit an area that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they are not able to cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other keys that are special have to 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. If this is the case, you'll need contact a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or workplace. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob in the event that it is required. You won't have to travel to the store and wait in a long line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology however, key cutting is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They report to car companies, who report to shareholders and investors who anticipate monetary gains each quarter. This is not a good way to provide high-quality customer service, especially when it comes time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a key made by locksmiths?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks However, the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced, and have the equipment 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 majority of standard keys are cut by a key duplicator machine, using the original key being used as a template. The blank key is placed on the other side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's specialized cutting blade, resulting in a duplicate of the original. Certain types of keys like car keys and fobs require more time because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Some keys are marked with some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however it's just an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. However, this doesn't mean the key cannot be copied however, it could take longer because locksmiths will need to inspect the key to ensure it's not tampered with.
Other keys can be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. cutting car key is usually because they have unique mechanical features or have a unique shape and is intended to stop them from being used to steal items or get into secure locations.
For these specialty keys, you will have to contact the local locksmith or go to their website to check whether they have the equipment and knowledge to cut keys. If they can make them, you'll have to be charged a little more than the cost of a standard key from a hardware shop or a self-service kiosk. However, it is cheaper and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.