15 Things You Don't Know About Car Keys Cut

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is a crucial service that will save you from a huge expense at the dealer. This can also protect you from being stranded when your keys break.

Modern keys contain transponders which need to be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the equipment to produce these key replacements at only a fraction of the cost.

What type of key do I need?

There are a few different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It does not include any encoder, and is merely a piece of metal that fits into a lock. They are commonly used on older cars.

Keys that are double-sided or four-sided are more secure and are identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are harder to pick and can help prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open the locks.

Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They are equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your car. This technology reduces theft because keys can only be used with the vehicle in question. transponder key Cutting near Me keys are more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, however they offer added security.

The majority of the time, if you require a replacement key the local key cutting AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it immediately. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.

Certain modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed with the car's computer, which requires specialized tools and transponder key Cutting near me software. Although many prefer to call their dealer for assistance however, it's not always needed. You can also search the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much lower prices than you would pay at a dealer. Before you purchase take a look, make sure you are aware that these keyfobs are hackable, so make sure you choose a reliable source.

Where can I get the key cut?

Most auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They will need to know the year and make and model of your car to provide you with a proper key blank, which they cut using precise machinery on site. However, some modern automobile keys like fobs also contain transponder chips built-in that require special programming for the particular vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores might be able to copy the keys, but they don't have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.

A typical process for duplicating keys for a standard car key involves an associate choosing the appropriate key blank and putting it on your existing key to act as a template. A machine then trace the original contours of your key to create the duplicate. Bring your original key if it has scratches. These will be added to your new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is beneficial to have the year, make and model of your vehicle along with the remote fob or key so that we can accurately choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if the vehicle is a push-button start model.

What equipment will I require?

Modern key blades require specialised precision tools to ensure the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. The process of cutting a new car key is much more complex than simply copying one from an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters, or hardware stores that have the appropriate tools for the task.

The key fobs of most cars sold in Australia come with a transponder which is programmed to 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 a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut before being programmed to your specific car which is a time-consuming and expensive process. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you and all you need is the current working key that you want duplicated and, if possible the year, make and model of your car so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.

It might be worthwhile getting a spare key made for your car that has a push button start. The key will come with the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. Finding a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a simple and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. All you need to bring is your car key and, if it is possible, the year, makes and models of both keys, so that we can identify which key is equipped with a transponder chip and have it properly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I get a key cut on my own?

Many hardware stores or big box retailers offer the service of cutting keys for a fee. They employ a machine that tracks the contours of the original key to create an exact replica. This method is suitable on older keys that do not have a chip. Modern automobiles, however, require the key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy task and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this type of task, as they have the necessary equipment and tools.

You can also visit an automated key cutting kiosk, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every kind of key. Some common keys can easily be copied. Other specialty keys must be sent to be processed. It is not recommended to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need to contact a locksmith assistance.

A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your home or workplace. They can cut a key quickly and Transponder key cutting near me reprogram your fob, should it be required. It is not necessary to drive to the store and wait in a long line.

Dealerships are experts in cars, but not necessarily in keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts, but the key-cutting process is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to protect their bottom lines. They report to car companies, who report to shareholders and investors who expect to earn money every quarter. These conditions do not lend themselves to a good customer experience when it comes to cutting car keys.

Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?

Locksmith companies are the best option. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip.

The majority of standard keys are cut by a special key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as the template. The blank key is put on the opposite side and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's cutting blade, which creates an exact duplicate of the original. Certain key types, like fobs and car keys need more time because they must be programmed for your vehicle.

Some keys have certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is merely an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. This does not mean the key isn't readable, but it may take longer because locksmiths will need to examine the key to ensure that it's not altered.

Other keys can be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually because they have distinctive mechanical features or are a strange shape, and is done to stop them from being used to steal items or gain access into secure areas.

You will need to contact an area locksmith to find out if they can cut these specialty keys. You can also check their website to determine if the locksmith has the required equipment and know-how. If they do, you will 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 is more affordable and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.