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If you lose a car key it can be extremely frustrating. You must find an area that can cut and program a new key.

Most Mister Minit stores have the equipment to duplicate standard keys, such as fobs, for cars with push button start. Bring the original key along with the year, make, and model to ensure accurate copying and programming.

What is a vehicle key?

There are a variety of keys, ranging from mechanical key systems to key fobs. The majority of car keys can be categorized into a handful of categories.

A standard car key, for example it is a standard key with no encoding. It also does not come with any other features, such as an integrated chip. The keys for cars can be made using a standard duplicator, and they're usually inexpensive. These keys are usually found on older models of automobiles and do not require special key cutting encryption, as do the majority of modern key systems.

Other kinds of keys for cars are more advanced, and may come with a microchip or other features to control the locking or starting functions of the vehicle. These key types can often be copied at your local auto shop or locksmith however they're typically more expensive than the basic options. They're also much more difficult to reprogram yourself and you'll usually have to visit a dealership or key shop to have this done.

Another type of advanced car key is a high security or side-winder key. These keys were introduced around the mid 1970s and look similar to standard mechanical car keys. The only difference is that the keyblade has grooves on both sides. These keys aren't as simple as traditional keys to duplicate and require a key duplicator capable of cutting these types of key.

There are also transponder, or smart keys, which have an embedded chip that communicates with the engine immobilizer. These vehicles are more difficult to start if the key is damaged or lost, so they are more likely to be locked out. Key systems like these are more difficult to repair if keys are lost or stolen, and require specialized machines which can only be found at the dealer. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle, you will probably find a reliable technician to cut and program your spare key at a Mister Minit location near you.

How do car keys work?

If you own a vehicle it is advisable to always carry an extra key. You never know when you may require it. You might not know the many other uses this tiny piece of plastic could perform for you. Here are a few secret uses for the car key fob you might not have thought of.

There are several types of cars and keys available today, but they all work in similar ways. The most basic kind of car key is a machine-cut key that is still used on older vehicles. These are the kinds keys that can be replaced at any locksmith at a low cost. These keys are simple to duplicate which is why it was so easy to steal automobiles in the past.

The next stage of car keys are known as transponder keys. They have a small transmitter in the key that sends an encoded code to a receiver inside your vehicle. The receiver responds by unlocking your doors. These are a lot more difficult to reproduce because they require a specific chip in the key that needs to be programmed specifically for your vehicle.

Finding a new key for these types of cars requires a special tool that can read the chip and match it with your car. If you want to replace the keys, you'll need to bring in your original key and have it professionally copied.

These machines are readily available at many AutoZone stores that offer key duplication. The process involves placing the original key on the machine's side and lining it up with a specialized tool to serve as a template. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, and both are pushed across a cutting surface simultaneously to create a perfect replica of the original.

Some locations also provide remote key replacement and programming. These can be costly and take a little longer. If you are having these types of keys made, it is recommended to keep the spare key in a secure place that is not with the other keys. This will help you avoid losing it and having to pay for these costly services again in the future.

How do I get my car key cut?

Many AutoZone locations offer car key cutting services for most models. Key blanks are selected for your car model year, make, and year. The associate will employ an instrument to cut keys to precisely copy the contours of your original key. It takes only some minutes for the majority of basic keys and is much cheaper than purchasing a brand new one from the dealer.

The same is true for replacing a lost car key fob. Modern key fobs go beyond just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your particular vehicle's security system. To do this, the key fob must be paired with the car using its diagnostics system.

To avoid this issue you can purchase an online replacement key fob instead of a traditional key. These replacements are typically offered for less than the cost of a new one at your local dealer, and will come with pre-programmed transponder chips that are ready to be paired to the computer in your car.

The ability to have a spare key for your car can be extremely useful, especially in the event that you get locked out of your vehicle or are involved in an accident. It is important to have an extra car key programmed and cut so that you can be back on the road as quickly as possible. Mister Minit can duplicate most keys for cars. However, it is recommended to bring your car key together with the year model, year and make of the car to get the most accurate results. A standard key can be copied in just a few minutes, but it may take up to an hour for a more complicated key fob to be duplicated and car key cutting service then programmed. In these instances it is recommended to call ahead to determine how the process will take prior to the time.

How do I program a car key?

The easiest way to avoid getting stuck with no car key is to ensure you have an extra. Keep it in a different location from your keychain so that it is easy to find and not forgotten about. Make it a habit of emptying your pockets each time you exit the car. This will stop you from leaving your keys in the trunk or leaving them in the grocery store.

The most important thing you do not want is to have your keys stolen or damaged. If you do get a damaged key, it is crucial to seek out a professional as soon as you can. This will enable them to fix the problem quickly, so you can get back to driving again.

If you require a replacement key, visit your local AutoZone. They will have a huge choice of fobs and keys for your particular vehicle. They will be able to match your existing key with the right blank and then draw it on the spot using an exact cutting device. They will even help you program the new key into your vehicle. This service is fast and affordable compared to the dealership. Stop by your local AutoZone today to save.