Ten Common Misconceptions About Car Keys Cut That Dont Always Hold

Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is crucial to get your car keys cut. This will save you a lot of money at the dealer. This will also keep you from being stuck in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys contain transponders which require programming to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone can replace these keys for the lowest cost.
What type of key do I require?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It does not include any encoder, and is just a piece metal that fits inside locks. They are commonly used on older cars.
Keys that are double-sided or four-sided are more secure and can be identified by having two or four sets on 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, which contains an embedded microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology reduces theft because keys can only be used with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.
Most times, when you require a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the parts and know-how to replace it immediately. Simply provide them with your vehicle's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed by the car's computer with specialized tools and software. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also search online for after market replacement keys or fobs for much less than the price you'd pay at a dealer. Before you buy, be aware that these key fobs can be hacked, so make sure you choose a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year and make and model of your car to provide you with a proper key blank and cut it using high-quality machinery on site. However, certain modern car keys, like fobs, also come with transponder chips that require special programming for the particular vehicle. You may be able to have 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 standard procedure for duplicating keys for a standard auto key is a user choosing the appropriate blank key and positioning it next to your existing key as an example. A machine then trace the original contours of the key to make the duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has small scratches. These will be added to your new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys for most automobiles. It is helpful to keep the year model, make and year of your car in hand along with the key or remote fob to ensure that we select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores can assist by programming the new key for your vehicle, if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting a new key for cars is more difficult than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires specialized equipment that can only be found in key cutters equipped with the right tools.
The majority of vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder chip integrated into the key fob that must be programmed into your vehicle before it can be used. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become a standard feature for all new cars that are sold in the present.
This means that a spare or replacement key will need to be laser cut before being programmed to the specific car you own, which is a lengthy and costly procedure. Most Mister Minit locations are equipped with the required equipment and know-how to duplicate your current key. All you need to bring is your existing key and, if possible, the year and model of your vehicle so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, it might be worth having an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature with a key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle independently). Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast 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 which key is equipped with a transponder chip and have it properly programmed to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut by myself?
Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They employ an instrument that follows the original contours of your key to make an exact duplicate. navigate here on older keys that do not include a chip. Modern cars, however, require the key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy job and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are more equipped to handle this kind of job since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.
You may also visit a kiosk for cutting keys such as one run by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, whereas other keys that are special need to 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. You'll need to contact an expert locksmith in this situation.
A locksmith may also provide the convenience of arriving at your workplace or home. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob in the event that it is required. You will not have 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 interior technology experts, but the key-cutting process is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that have strict rules in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who, in turn, provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. This is not a good way to provide high-quality customer service, especially when it comes time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a locksmith cut a key for me?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores and self-service kiosks for copying keys, but the best place to go is a locksmith company. They are licensed and experienced and have the tools to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
Most standard keys are cut by a specific key duplicator, with the original key being used as the template. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys move across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. Certain key types, like car keys and fobs require a longer process because they must be programmed for your vehicle.
Some keys have certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however it's just an extra measure to protect against unauthorised copying. This does not mean the key isn't readable however it could take longer because locksmiths must examine the key to ensure it's not tampered with.
Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is usually because they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape and is intended to prevent them from being used to steal items or get into secured locations.
For these specialty keys, you will have to talk to an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to see if they have the equipment and expertise to cut keys. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than having a standard key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be cheaper and less stressful than replacing a lost car key.