3 Ways That The Car Keys Cut Can Affect Your Life
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 can also protect you from being left stranded in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed to work with the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for the lowest cost.
What kind of key do I require?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encryption, and is just a piece of metal that fits inside a lock. These keys are most commonly used on older vehicles.
Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and can be identified by having two or four sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require extra strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are a second type of key. They contain an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your car. This technology reduces theft since the key can only be used on the vehicle in question. Transponder keys can be slightly more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys, but they provide greater security.
If you require replacement of keys and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store closest to 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'll take care of it for you.
Some modern vehicles come with remote controls that have to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle to function. This requires specialized tools and software. Many people contact their dealer for this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also search on the internet for replacement keys or fobs for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. Before you buy take a look, make sure you are aware that these keyfobs are hackable, so be sure you use a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To supply you with the correct key blank, they will need to know your vehicle's year and make, along with the model. They can cut the key on-site using a precise machine. Some modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require special programming. It is possible to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the equipment to duplicate or program the chip.
A typical key duplication process for a standard car key is a partner choosing the appropriate key blank and then putting it in place against your current key to serve as an outline. A machine then traces the original contours of your key to create a duplicate. It is recommended to bring your original key in the event that it has a few minor 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 cars. see is essential to know the year and model of your car, 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 one with a push-button start feature.
What equipment do I need?
Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting the new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires special equipment that is only available at authorized locksmiths, key cutters, or hardware stores equipped with the right tools for the task.
The majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chips embedded in 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 started in the 1990's to combat increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new vehicles that are sold today.
This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut before being programmed for your specific vehicle which can be a very time-consuming and expensive process. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you. All you need is the current working key that you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it could be worth having a spare key cut to your push button start car that comes with the key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need 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 vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores provide key cutting services for a small fee. They make use of a machine to track the contours of your original key to make a precise replica. This works for keys older than that do not have a chip. Modern automobiles, however, require keys to be programmed, which is not an easy task, and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this type of task, as they have the necessary equipment and tools.
You can also go to an automated key cutting kiosk, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, but other specialty keys need to be mailed in for processing. Make sure that you aren't trying to create a duplicate of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll need contact a locksmith for help.
A locksmith may also provide a more convenient option by coming directly to your home or office. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. It is not necessary to travel to the store and stand in an endless line.
Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know everything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics but cutting keys is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that operate under strict policies in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, which in turn, report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to good customer service when it comes to cutting car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
Locksmith services are the best choice. more.. can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. A blank key is positioned on the other side, and both keys are moved through the machine's specialized cutter and create a copy of the original key. For some key types such as car keys or key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to prevent unauthorized copies. This is a measure to protect. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it will take longer because locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure that it's not altered.
Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. It is usually because they have a unique mechanical feature or have a peculiar shape. This is to stop the keys from being used to steal items or getting into secure locations.
For these special keys, you'll have to contact a local locksmith or visit their website to check whether they have the tools and know-how to cut keys. If they can cut them, you'll be charged a little more than when you get a standard key from an hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it's easier and less expensive to replace keys that have been lost.