Who Is Car Keys Cut And Why You Should Care
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. It also prevents you from being stuck without a functioning key.
Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the tools to create these key replacements for a fraction of the price.
What kind of key do I need?
There are many different types of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encoder, and is just a piece metal that fits inside locks. These keys are commonly used in older cars.
A four-sided or double-sided key is a safer option and can be identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They are equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your car. This reduces the risk of theft since the key can only be used with a specific vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, however they provide additional security.
Most of the time, if you require a new key the local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it immediately. Just give them the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take care of the rest.
Some modern vehicles come with remote controls that need to be programmed into the car's computer in order to work. This requires specialized software and tools. While many people choose to call their dealer to get this service, it's not always necessary. You can also search the internet for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at much lower prices than you'd pay at a dealer. But, before you make this purchase be aware that these keyfobs could be hacked so be sure to use a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To give you the right key blank they must know the year of your car and make, along with the model. They will then cut it on site with precision equipment. However, certain modern car keys like fobs also come with transponder chips that require special programming for the particular vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they won't have the equipment needed to copy the chip or program it.
The typical key duplication procedure for a traditional auto key is a user choosing the correct blank key and positioning it next to your existing key as an example. The machine then follows the original contours of the key to create a duplicate. Bring your original key in case it has scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your vehicle together with the remote fob or the key so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tools to ensure the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. The process of cutting a new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing key and requires special equipment that is only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores that have the right tools for the job.
The key fobs in the majority of automobiles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder that must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security measure that started in the 1990's to stop the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the standard for all new vehicles that are sold today.
It can be a lengthy and costly process. A spare or replacement key has to be laser cut and then programmed to match your specific car. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you. All you need is the working key that you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can determine 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. G28 Car Keys UK will come with an electronic key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. 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 you can the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can determine which key has a transponder chip, and get it correctly programmed to your car.
Can I cut my own key?
Many big-box retailers and stores provide key cutting services for a small cost. They make use of machines to follow the contours of your original key in order to create an exact replica. This works for keys older than without a chip in them. Modern automobiles, however, require a key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy task and requires specialized equipment and expertise. This type of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment needed.
You can also go to the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but do not cut every kind of key. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other specialty keys must be sent to be processed. You should not try to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need to call a locksmith for help.
A locksmith is more convenient when coming to your workplace or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, should it be required. You will not have to go to the store and stand in a long line.
Dealerships know cars however they don't know everything about keys. The process of cutting keys isn't their area of expertise. They have their own inside technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to support their bottom line. They report to car companies that submit quarterly reports to shareholders and investors. This is not a good way to provide high-quality customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys however the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the tools to duplicate most types. In addition, they can assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator machine, using the original key serving as a template. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's specialized cutting blade, resulting in an exact copy of the original. Certain key types, like fobs and car keys need more time because they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Some keys are marked with a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however it's just an additional security measure to stop the copying of keys that are not authorized. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied. However, it will take longer because a locksmith has to inspect the key to make sure that it's not damaged.
Other keys may be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually because they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a unique shape and is intended to ensure that they are not used to steal items or get into secured locations.
For these keys, you'll need to speak with a local locksmith or visit their website to see whether they have the equipment and know-how to cut keys for them. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than having a standard key cut at a hardware store or at a self-service kiosk, but it will be cheaper and less stressful than replacing a lost car key.