Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is crucial to get your car keys cut. This will save you a significant amount of money at the dealer. It will also prevent you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys have transponders that must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys at the lowest cost.
What kind of key do I need?
There are many kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It does not include any encoding, and it is just a piece metal that fits into a lock. Keys of this type are often used in older vehicles.
A key with four sides or a double-sided side is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins because they require extra strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are another type of key. They are equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your car. This technology reduces theft since the key can only be used with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they offer added security.
Most times, when you require a new key the local AutoZone store will have the parts and know-how to replace it right away. All you need to do is provide them with the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll handle it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with a remote fob that must be programmed by the vehicle's computer to work, which requires specialized tools and software. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also search online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at much lower prices than what you'd purchase from a dealer. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these keys are hackable, so make sure you get 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 key blank they must know your vehicle's year and make, along with the model. They will cut the key on-site with precision equipment. Certain modern keys for cars, like fobs, also come with transponder chips that require specific programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they don't have the tools needed to duplicate the chip or program it.
A typical key duplication process for a car key of the traditional type involves a person selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against your current key to serve as a template. A machine then traces the original contours of the key to make the duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key in case it has a few small scratches since these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the key of all cars. It is beneficial to have the year, make and model of your vehicle along with the remote fob or the key to ensure that we select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also help with the process of programming the new key into your vehicle if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern ignitions require precise tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting the new car key is more complex than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that is only available at authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores that have the appropriate tools for the task.
The key fobs of most automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This is a security feature that started in the 1990's to combat increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars sold today.
This means that a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut before being programmed to your specific car which can be a very costly and time-consuming procedure. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the necessary equipment and know-how to duplicate the key you have. All you need to do is bring your current key and, if you have it identify the year, model and make of your vehicle, so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.
It may be worth getting a spare key made for your car with a push-button start. This key will have a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You'll need your vehicle key, and if possible the year, make and model of both keys, so that we can determine which key has transponder technology and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut a key by myself?
Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They employ a machine to track the contours of your original key in order to create an exact replica. This method is suitable on older keys that do not contain chips. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a difficult job that requires specialized equipment and skills. This type of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools required.
You may also visit a kiosk for cutting keys, such as one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, while other specialty keys need to be mailed to be processed. You should not try to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". You'll need to call an expert locksmith if this is the situation.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or work. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob, in the event that it is required. This will avoid the hassle of having to drive 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 experts in interior technology and mechanics, but the key-cutting process is not their expertise. Dealerships are large corporations who adhere to strict guidelines in order to maximize their profits. They are accountable to car companies, who provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to good customer service when it comes to cutting keys to cars.
Where can I get a key made by a locksmith?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks, but the best option is a locksmith firm. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut by a special key duplicator machine, with the original key being used as a template. G28 Car Keys is placed on the opposite side, and both keys are moved across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. Certain key types, like car keys and fobs require more time because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a measure to protect. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied. However, it will take longer since locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure it is not tampered.
Certain keys are limited and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. This is usually because they have unique mechanical features or are a strange shape and is done to stop them from being used to steal items or get into secure locations.
For these specialty keys, you will have to talk to the local locksmith or go to their website to determine whether they have the tools and knowledge to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than having a standard key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be less expensive and less stressful than replacing a lost car key.