Where to Get Car Keys Cut

It is crucial to get your car keys cut. This will save you a significant amount of money at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being stranded in the event that your key is damaged.

Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed to function with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the equipment to produce these key replacements for only a fraction of the cost.

What type of key will I require?

There are many different kinds of keys. The most basic is a traditional key, which isn't encoded or programming, and is merely cut metal that fits a lock. These keys are most commonly used on older vehicles.

A double-sided or four-sided key is a safer option and is easily identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to find and could assist in preventing break-ins since they require more strength to open the lock.

Another kind of key is a transponder key that has an embedded microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology reduces theft because the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are slightly more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide greater security.

If you are looking to replace a key, the AutoZone store closest to you will typically have the required parts and know-how. All you have to do is provide them with the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.

Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that have to be programmed by the vehicle's computer and requires special tools and software. Many people call their dealer for this service but it's not always required. You can also search online for after market replacement keys/fobs that are available at a much lower cost than what you'd find at a dealership. However, before you start looking, it's important to note that these keyfobs could be stolen, so be sure to use a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut for me?

The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. To give you the correct key blank, they will need to know your vehicle's year, make, and model. They can cut the key on-site using precision machinery. However, some modern automobile keys, such as fobs, have built-in transponder chips which require special programming specific to the vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy these keys, but they don't have the equipment needed to copy the chip or program it.

A typical process for duplicating keys for a car key of the traditional type involves a person selecting the correct key blank and putting it on the key you have already used as a template. The machine then follows the initial contours of your key to make the duplicate. Bring 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 the key of all automobiles. It is essential to know the year and make of your vehicle, along with your key or remote so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores can assist by programming the new key to your vehicle, if it's a push button start model.

What equipment do I need?

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

Most vehicles sold in Australia have a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob. This chip requires to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 1990's to stop increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the norm 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 for your specific vehicle which can be a lengthy and costly process. Most Mister Minit locations are equipped with the equipment and know-how to duplicate your key. All you have to do is bring your current key and, if you can, the year and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.

If you have a newer car, it could be beneficial to have an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature with the key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle separately). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need to bring is your car key and, if possible the year, makes and models of both keys so that we can identify which key has a transponder chip and be able to program it correctly to your vehicle.

Can I get a key cut on my own?

Many big-box stores and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a small cost. They employ a machine that tracks the contours of the original key to create an exact replica. This method works for older keys that do not contain a chip. Modern cars require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task and requires special equipment and knowledge. This type of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools required.

You may also visit a key-cutting kiosk like one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but don't cut every kind of key. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other keys that are special have to be mailed to be processed. You should not try to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need to contact a locksmith assistance.

A locksmith can also offer the convenience of coming directly to your home or office. They can cut a key and reprogram your fob if necessary. It is not necessary to drive to the store and wait in an endless line.

Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology but cutting keys is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict policies to serve their bottom line. 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 good customer service when cutting car keys.

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

You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service kiosks for copying keys However, the best option is a locksmith company. They are licensed, experienced and have the tools to duplicate all types 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 new car key near me by a specific key duplicator machine, using the original key acting as the template. The blank mobile key cutting is put on the opposite side and both keys are pushed through the machine's specialized cutting blade, which creates a duplicate of the original. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to prevent unauthorized copies. This is a security measure. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied. However, it will take longer because locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure it is not tampered.

Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to cut or copy them. It is usually because they have a distinct mechanical feature or have a peculiar shape. This is to prevent the keys from being used for stealing items or entering safe locations.

You'll need to contact the local locksmith to determine whether they are able to cut these specialty keys. You can also visit their website to determine if the locksmith key cutting has the equipment and experience required. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than getting a basic key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it's cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace the car key that was lost.