Blog entry by Ina Barreiro
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealership. It also prevents you from getting stuck without a working key.
Modern keys contain transponders which require programming to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the tools to create these key replacements at less than the cost.
What kind of key do I require?
There are many kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It does not include any encoding, and get keys cut it is just a piece metal that fits inside locks. These keys are commonly found in older automobiles.
A key with four sides or a double-sided side is a more secure option 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 they can be used to prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.
Transponder keys are a second type of key. They are equipped with a microchip programmed to start your car. This reduces the risk of theft since the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they offer added security.
If you require replacement of keys, the AutoZone store nearest you will usually have the necessary parts and know-how. All you have to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and get keys cut they will take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that need to be programmed with the car's computer and requires special tools and software. Many people contact their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also look on the internet for replacement keys and fobs that are readily available at a much lower cost than what you'd pay at a dealership. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so make sure you use a reliable source.
Where can I get 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 vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key blank and cut it with precision machinery on-site. Some modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require specific programming. It is possible to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the tools to reprogram or clone the chip.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key car cutting is a partner selecting the correct blank and putting it on your current key to serve as an example. The original contours of the key are mapped by a machine to create a duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key in the event that it has a few tiny scratches since they will be included in the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the automobile key cutting near me of all automobiles. It is important to have the year and make of your vehicle, together with your key or remote so that we can select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I need?
Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a flawless cut. Cutting the new car key is more complex than simply copying one from an existing one and requires specialised equipment that can be only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools to handle the task.
The key fobs in the majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the rising rate of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become a standard feature for all new cars sold in the present.
This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut and then programmed for your specific vehicle which can be a lengthy and costly process. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the tools and experience to duplicate your current key. All you have to do is bring your current key and, if you have it identify the year model, make and year of your vehicle so we may identify the correct code to program your new key.
It could be worthwhile to get an extra key for your car with a push-button start. The key will come with a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and simple process at many Mister Minit stores. You'll need your vehicle key, and if possible the year the make and model of both keys, so we can determine which key has transponder technology and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut a key on my own?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a fee. They employ a machine that tracks the original contours of your existing key cut place near me to create an exact replica. This method is suitable for keys older than not include a chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task and requires special equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this type of task, as they have the necessary equipment and tools.
You can also visit a kiosk for cutting keys, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but they don't cut every kind of key. Keys that are common can be copied, but other specialty keys need to be mailed to be processed. It is not recommended to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith is more convenient when coming to your home or work. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. You won't have to go to the store and wait in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles, but not necessarily in keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology but cutting keys is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, who in turn, report to shareholders and investors who expect to earn money every quarter. This does not help in providing high-quality customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service key copy kiosks However, the best place to go is a locksmith firm. They are licensed and experienced, and have the tools to duplicate most types of keys. In addition, they can assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of keys are cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as the template. A blank key is put on the opposite side, and both keys move across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key cut place. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to protect against copies made by unauthorized copyists. This is a measure to protect. However, this doesn't mean the key cannot be copied however it could take more time because a locksmith will have to look over the key and make sure it's not damaged.
Certain keys cutting near me are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. This is typically because they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a unique shape, and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or get into secure areas.
For these special 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 for them. If they do, expect to pay a bit 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 the car key that was lost.