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Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of money at the dealership. It also keeps you from being stranded without a working key.
Modern keys come with transponders that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys for an affordable cost.
What type of key will I need?
There are several different kinds of keys. The most basic type is a traditional key. It isn't encoded or programming and is simply cut metal that fits a lock. They are commonly used on older cars.
A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure and can be identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can help prevent break-ins because they require additional strength to open the lock.
Transponder keys are another type of key. They have a microchip programmed to start your vehicle. This reduces the risk of theft since the key can only be used with a specific vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, however they provide extra security.
The majority of the time, if you require a new key, your local AutoZone store will have the right parts and the knowledge to complete it right away. You just need to give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you.
Certain modern vehicles have remote controls that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer to function. This requires special software and tools. Many people contact their dealer for this service but it's not always necessary. You can also look online for after market replacement keys and fobs that are readily available at a much lower cost than what you'd find at a dealership. However, before you start looking it is important to remember that these keyfobs could be compromised, so make sure you choose a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To provide you with the right blank for your key, they will need to know the year of your car and make, as well as the model. They will then cut it on the spot with precision equipment. However, some modern car keys, such as fobs, have built-in transponder chips which require special programming specific to the 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 needed to clone or program the chip.
The typical key duplication procedure for an auto key of the traditional type is a user choosing the correct blank key, and placing it next to your existing key as an example. The key's original contours are then traced by a machine to make a duplicate. It's best to bring your original key in case it has a few tiny scratches since these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specific equipment required to duplicate most cars. It is helpful to keep the year model, make and year of your car handy together with your remote fob or the key so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if the vehicle is one with a push-button start feature.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precision tools to ensure the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing one and requires special equipment that is only available at authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools for the task.
Most automobiles sold in Australia have a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob. It requires to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to combat the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars that are sold in the present.
This means a spare or replacement key needs to be laser cut before being programmed to your specific car which can be a lengthy and costly procedure. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to handle this for you. All you need is the current working key you want duplicated and, if possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your vehicle so that we can identify the right code to program your new key.
If you have a newer car, it could be worthwhile to have a spare key cut to your car with a push button start feature that comes with a key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). Finding a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a quick and easy process at the majority of Mister Minit stores. All you need to bring is your car key and, if possible the year, makes and models of both keys so we can identify the key that has a transponder chip, and get it correctly programmed to your car.
Can I cut a key by myself?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers offer cutting keys for a fee. They use machines that follow the original contours of your existing key to create an exact replica. This works for older keys with no chip. Modern cars, however, require a key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy task, and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this type of work, because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also go to a key-cutting kiosk, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every type of key. Some common keys can be copied, whereas other keys with special features must be mailed to be processed. Make sure that you aren't attempting to make a copy of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith help.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or workplace. They can cut keys and even modify your fob, if required. This will avoid the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in the line.
Dealerships are experts in cars but not necessarily in keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts but cutting keys is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict policies to serve their bottom line. They report to car companies who, in turn, provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to a good customer experience when cutting car keys.
Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?
Locksmith services are the best option. You can also get keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the tools to duplicate all types of keys. key cutting services can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut most standard keys. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's specially-designed cutting blade, resulting in an exact copy of the original. For some key types, like car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys bear certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is just an extra measure to protect against unauthorized copying. It doesn't mean that keys cannot be copied. However, it could take longer because locksmiths have to examine the key to make sure that it's not damaged.
Other keys can be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they can be cut or copied. It is usually because they possess a unique mechanical characteristic or a strange shape. This is done to prevent the keys from being used to steal items or gaining access to safe locations.
You'll need to call an area locksmith to determine if they can cut these keys. You can also check their website to see whether the locksmith is equipped with the required equipment and know-how. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, however it will be less expensive and less stressful than having to replace keys for your car that have been lost.
