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 stops you from getting stuck without a working key.
Modern keys include transponders that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys for a fractional price.
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 does not have any encoding, and it is merely a piece of metal that fits into the lock. Keys like these are typically used in older cars.
Keys with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and can be identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can aid in preventing burglaries because they require extra strength to open the lock.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that is equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to turn on the car. This technology helps reduce theft since keys can only be used on the specific vehicle. Transponder keys can be a bit more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.
If you require replacement of a key or a lock, the AutoZone store closest to you will typically have the needed parts and know-how. Just give them the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take charge of the rest.
Some modern vehicles have remote fobs that have to be programmed by the car's computer with specialized tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also look online for after market replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. Before you do take a look, make sure you are aware that these keys are hackable, so make sure you get a trusted 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, make and model of your vehicle to give you a suitable key blank, which they cut using high-quality machinery on site. Certain modern car keys, such as fobs, also come with transponder chips that require specific programming. It is possible to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the tools to duplicate or program the chip.
A typical process for duplicating keys for a car key of the traditional type involves a person selecting the correct blank and positioning it against your current key to serve as an outline. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine to make duplicates. Bring your original key in case it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the keys of most cars. It is beneficial to have the year the make and model of your car handy together with your remote fob or the key so that we can accurately choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can assist by programming the new key into your vehicle, if it's one with a push button start feature.
What equipment will I need?
Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting the new car key is much more complex than simply copying one from an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters, or hardware stores that have the right tools for the job.
The key fobs on the majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder which must be programmed for your vehicle. car key cutting near me is a security measure that started in the 1990's to stop the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles sold today.
This means that a spare or replacement key will have to be cut using lasers and programmed to the specific car you own, which can be a lengthy and costly procedure. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you and all you need is the current working key you want duplicated and, if you can, the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it may also be worth having a spare key cut for your push button start car that comes with the key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle separately). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You'll need your car key, and if possible the year the make and model of the keys, so that we can determine which key is transponder technology and program it to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut on my own?
Many big-box stores and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They make use of a machine that tracks the original contours of your key to make an exact duplicate. This method is suitable on older keys that do not include a chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult job that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This kind of work is best for locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment required.
You can also visit a kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but they do not cut every type of key. Some common keys can easily be copied. Other specialty keys must be sent to be processed. Be sure you're not attempting to make a copy of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can also offer the convenience of arriving at your office or home. They can cut keys and even change the fob's settings if needed. This will save you the hassle of having to drive to a store and stand in line.
Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know everything about keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts however, key cutting is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations that operate according to strict guidelines to support their bottom line. They report to car companies, which in turn, report to shareholders and investors who expect to earn money every quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to a good customer experience when cutting car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
Locksmith services are the best option. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced and have the tools to duplicate all kinds of keys. Additionally, they can assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key can be used as a template to cut the majority of standard keys. The blank key is put on the other side and both keys are pushed through the machine's specially-designed cutting blade, resulting in an exact copy of the original. Certain key types, like car keys and fobs require a longer process because they must be programmed for 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 can't be copied. However, it will take longer because locksmiths must inspect the key to ensure that it's not damaged.
Other keys can be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually due to the fact that they have distinctive mechanical features or are a strange shape and is intended to prevent them from being used to steal objects or get into secure areas.
You will need to contact an area locksmith to find out whether they are able to cut these specialty keys. You can also go to their website to determine whether the locksmith is equipped with the equipment and experience required. If they do make them, you'll have to be charged a little more than if you were to get a standard key from a hardware shop or a self-service kiosk. However, it's more affordable and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.