Where to Get Car Keys Cut

It is essential to have your car keys cut. This will help you save cash at the dealer. It also keeps you from being stranded without a functioning key.

Modern keys include transponders that require programming in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the equipment to make these key replacements for a fraction of the price.

What kind of key do I need?

There are several different types of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encryption, Where to Get Car Keys Cut and is merely a piece of metal that fits inside the lock. They are commonly found on older vehicles.

A four-sided or double-sided key is a more secure 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 help prevent break-ins because they require additional strength to open the lock.

Transponder keys are another type of key. They have an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your car. This technology reduces theft because the key is only compatible with the particular vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys but they offer increased security.

If you require replacement of keys or a lock, the AutoZone store closest to you will usually 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 cars have remote controls that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle to function. This requires special software and tools. Many people contact their dealer for this service, but it's not always required. You can also search online for after market replacement keys or fobs for a fraction of the price you'd find at a dealership. But, before you make this purchase be aware that these keyfobs can be stolen, so be sure to use a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year and make of your vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key cut for car blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. However, certain modern car keys, like fobs, also have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. You might be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the equipment to reprogram or clone the chip.

The most common method of duplication for a standard auto key involves an associate choosing the correct blank key, and placing it next to the existing key to serve as a template. A machine then trace the initial contours of your key to make the duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key in the event that it has a few tiny scratches as they will be included in the new key.

Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the key of all automobiles. It is helpful to keep the year the make and model of your car handy along with the remote fob or the key so that we can accurately choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also assist with the process of programming the new key to your vehicle, if it's a push button start model.

What equipment do I require?

Modern key blades require specialised precision tools to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the job.

The key fobs in the majority of vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which must be programmed for your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the increasing rate of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars that are sold today.

This means that a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut and then programmed to your specific car which is a costly and time-consuming procedure. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you. All you need is your current working key you wish to have duplicated, and if it is possible, the year, make and model of your car to help us identify the right code to program your new key.

It may be worth getting an extra key designed for your car with a push-button start. This key will have a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. You will need your car key, and if you can, 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 cut my own key?

Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting service for a small cost. They use a machine to track the contours of your original key in order to create an exact replica. This works for keys older than that do not have a chip. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This kind of job is best for locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment needed.

You can also visit the kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other specialty keys must be mailed to be processed. Be sure you're not trying to create a duplicate of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll have to contact an experienced locksmith in this situation.

A locksmith may also provide the convenience of coming directly to your office or home. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob should it be required. This will avoid the hassle of having to drive to a store and stand in the line.

Dealerships know cars but they don't know anything about keys. The key-cutting process might not be their forte. They have their own interior Where to Get Car Keys Cut technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations that operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They report to car companies that provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These circumstances are not conducive to providing good customer service when it comes to cutting car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?

Locksmith firms are the best option. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.

The majority of keys are cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key being used as a template. A blank key is put on the opposite side and both keys move simultaneously across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. Certain types of keys like fobs and car keys need more time because they have to be programmed for your vehicle.

Certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however this is just a security measure to prevent the copying of keys that are not authorized. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied, but it may take longer because a locksmith will have to examine the key to ensure it's not damaged.

Certain keys are limited and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is typically because they have a unique mechanical feature or a unique shape. This is to stop keys from being used for stealing items or entering safe locations.

For these special keys, you'll have to contact the local locksmith or go to their website to determine whether they have the tools and know-how to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than getting a basic key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it's cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace the car key that was lost.