Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Cutting your car keys is a crucial service that could save you from a significant expense at the dealership. This will also keep you from being stranded in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys have transponders that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys at a fractional price.
What type of key will I need?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not have any encryption, and is just a piece metal that fits inside the lock. These keys are commonly used in older vehicles.
Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and can be identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are difficult to pick, and they can be used to stop burglaries since they require more strength to open the locks.
Another type of key is a transponder that is equipped with a microchip that is programmed to start the car. This technology reduces theft because the key is only compatible with that specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, however they offer added security.
Most of the time, when you require a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the parts and the knowledge to complete it right away. Simply provide them with the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed using the vehicle's computer, which requires specialized tools and software. Many people ask their dealer for this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also search online for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much less cost than you would spend at a dealership. But before you do this it is important to remember that these keyfobs are susceptible to being stolen, so be sure to choose a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. They'll need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. Some modern car keys, such as fobs, also come with transponder chips that require special programming. You may be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the equipment needed to duplicate or program the chip.
The typical key duplication procedure for an auto key of the traditional type is a user choosing the correct blank key and placing it next to your existing key to serve as an example. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. Bring your original key if it has scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specific equipment required to duplicate the key of all cars. It is crucial to provide the year and model of your vehicle, along with your remote or key so that we can select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is a push-button start model.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precision tooling to ensure the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. The process of 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 key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores that have the right tools to handle the job.
The key fobs of most vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder which must be programmed for your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing rate of theft from cars in Australia. It is now standard on all new cars that are sold today.
This means that a spare or replacement key will need to be cut using lasers and programmed for your specific vehicle which can be a very time-consuming and expensive process. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to handle this for you. All you need is the current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can determine the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, it might be beneficial to have a spare key cut for your push button start car that includes an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You'll need your vehicle key, and if you can, the year, make and model of both keys, so we can determine which key is a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a small fee. They make use of machines to follow the contours of the original key in order to produce a exact replica. This method is suitable on older keys that do not have a chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult job that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this type of work, because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also go to an area that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every kind of key. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other specialty keys must be mailed in order to be processed. It is not advisable to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". You'll need to contact a professional locksmith in this situation.
A locksmith can be more convenient by visiting 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 wait in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. Key-cutting might not be their forte. They have their own inside technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict guidelines to protect their bottom line. They report to car companies, who report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. This is not a good way to provide excellent customer service, particularly when it is time to cut car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?
Locksmith services are the best choice. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced, and have the equipment to duplicate most types of keys. In key cut place , they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut most standard keys. The blank key is positioned on the other side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's specially-designed cutting blade, resulting in an exact duplicate of the original. For certain kinds of keys 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. However, this doesn't mean the key isn't readable, but it may take longer because locksmiths must examine the key and make sure it's not damaged.
Other keys can be restricted and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is typically because they have unique mechanical features or are a strange shape, and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or gain access into secure areas.
For these special keys, you'll have to contact the local locksmith or go to their website to see whether they have the tools and know-how to cut keys. If they do, expect to pay a little more than a standard key cut at an hardware store or a self-service kiosk, but it will be less expensive and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.