Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that will help you avoid a large cost at the dealership. This will also keep you from being stuck when your keys break.
Modern keys come with transponders that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for an affordable cost.
What type of key do I need?
There are several different types of keys. The most basic type is a traditional key. It doesn't contain any encoding or programming and is simply cut out of metal and fits inside a lock. Keys like these are typically found on older vehicles.
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 locate and can help prevent break-ins because they require extra strength to open the lock.
Another type of key is a transponder key that has an embedded microchip that is programmed to start the car. This technology can help reduce theft since keys can only be used with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they do provide additional security.
If you are looking to replace keys, the AutoZone store closest to you will usually have the needed parts and know-how. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that need to be programmed using the car's computer and requires special tools and software. Although many prefer to contact their dealership for assistance however, it's not always needed. You can also search online for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much lower prices than you'd pay at a dealer. Before you purchase make a purchase, you should be aware that these key fobs are hackable, so be sure you get a trusted source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To give you the correct key blank they'll need to know the year of your car and make, along with the model. They will then cut it on site using precision machinery. However, certain modern car keys like fobs also contain transponder chips built-in that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy these keys, but they won't have the equipment needed to clone the chip or program it.
The most common method of duplication for a standard auto key involves a person selecting the correct blank key and positioning it next to your existing key as an example. The machine then follows the original contours of your key to create a duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate most cars. It is essential to know the year and make of your vehicle together with your key or remote so that we can select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can assist with the process of programming the new key for your vehicle if it's a push button start model.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tooling to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that can be only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the job.
The key fobs of most cars sold in Australia come with a transponder that is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It is now standard on all new cars sold in the present.
This means that a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut and then programmed to the specific car you own, which is a costly and time-consuming process. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the necessary equipment and expertise to duplicate your current key. All you need to do is bring your key from the previous one and, if you can, the year, model and make of your vehicle so that we can identify the correct code for programming your new key.
If you have a newer car, it may also be worthwhile to have a spare key cut for your car with a push button start feature with the key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle independently). Finding a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. All you need to bring is your car keys and, if you can the year, makes and models of both keys so that we can identify the key that has a transponder chip, and get it correctly programmed to your car.
Can I get a key cut on my own?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a cost. They make use of a machine that tracks the original contours of your key to produce an exact replica. This method is suitable on older keys that do not include a chip. Modern cars, however, require a key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy job and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This kind of work is best for locksmiths who have access to the equipment and tools needed.
You can also visit the kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. get car key cut are convenient, but do not cut every type of key. Some common keys can be copied, whereas other keys that are special need to be sent in for processing. Be sure you're not attempting to make a copy of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll have to contact an experienced locksmith in this situation.
A locksmith can be more convenient by visiting your workplace or home. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob if needed. You will not have to travel to the store and stand in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts on cars, but they don't necessarily know everything about keys. The process of cutting keys isn't their area of expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines in order to maximize their profits. They are accountable to car companies, who provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to providing good customer service when it comes to cutting keys to cars.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
You can cut keys at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks However, the best option is a locksmith company. They are licensed and experienced, and have the necessary equipment to duplicate all kinds of keys. In addition, they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut using a specific key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. The blank key is put on the opposite side, and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's cutting blade, resulting in an exact duplicate of the original. Some key types like fobs and car keys need an extended process since they need to be programmed to your vehicle.
Certain keys bear some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however it's just an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. It doesn't mean that keys cannot be copied. However, it could take longer since locksmiths must inspect the key to ensure that it's not damaged.
get car key cut may be restricted and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually because they have distinctive mechanical features or have a peculiar shape and is intended to stop them from being used to steal objects or get into secure locations.
You'll need to call the local locksmith to find out whether they are able cut these specialty keys. You can also visit their website to determine whether the locksmith is equipped with the necessary equipment and expertise. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than getting a basic key cut at a hardware store or at self-service kiosks, but it's cheaper and less stressful than replacing keys for your car that have been lost.