Test: How Much Do You Know About Car Keys Cut
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 dealership. This can also protect you from being left stranded if your key breaks.
Modern keys have transponders that require programming to work with the vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the tools to make these key replacements for less than the cost.
What type of key will I need?
There are many different types of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not have any encoder, and is just a piece metal that fits inside a lock. Keys of this type are often used in older vehicles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.
Another type of key is a transponder that has a microchip which is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology reduces theft because the key can only be used with a particular vehicle. Transponder keys are a bit more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.
Most times, when you require a new key the local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it quickly. Just provide them with your vehicle's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take care of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have remote fobs that need to be programmed by the car's computer with specialized tools and software. Many people contact their dealer for this service but it's not always necessary. You can also look online for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at a lower cost than you would pay at a dealer. Before you buy take a look, make sure you are aware that these keyfobs are hackable, so make sure you choose a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard keys for cars. To give you the right blank for your key, they will need to know your vehicle's year and make, as well as the model. They will then cut it on the spot with precision equipment. However, some modern car keys like fobs also come with transponder chips that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores might be able to copy the keys, but they will not have the equipment required to clone the chip or program it.
A typical key duplication process for a car key of the traditional type involves an associate selecting the correct key blank and then putting it in place against your current key to serve as an outline. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine to make a duplicate. It's best to bring your original key in case it has a few small scratches since they will be included in the new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys for most cars. It is important to have the year and make of your vehicle along with your key or remote to ensure that we select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores can also program the new key if your car is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern ignitions require precise tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting a new key for a car is more complex than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires special equipment which is only available in key cutters with the correct tools.
The key fobs in the majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to combat the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become a standard feature for all new vehicles sold today.
This means a spare car key cutting or replacement key will need to be cut using lasers and programmed to your specific car which is a costly and time-consuming process. Most Mister Minit locations are equipped with the equipment and expertise to duplicate your key. All you have to bring is your existing key and, if you have it provide the year and model of your vehicle, so that we may identify the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, it might be worthwhile to have a spare mobile key cutting near me cut for your push button start car that includes a key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You will need your car key, and if possible the year and make of the keys, so that we can determine which key is a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I get a key cut on my own?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers offer the service of cutting keys for a small fee. They employ an instrument that follows the original contours of your key to make an exact copy. This method is suitable for older keys that do not have chips. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a challenging 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 can also go to an automated key cutting kiosk, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but don't cut every kind of key. Certain keys are able to be copied, while other keys that are special need to be sent in for processing. It is not recommended to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need to contact a locksmith help.
A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or workplace. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob should it be required. This will eliminate the inconvenience of having to drive to a store and stand in line.
Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. The process of cutting keys might not be their forte. They have their own internal technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations which operate with strict guidelines to protect their bottom lines. They report to car companies, which report to shareholders and investors who expect to earn money every quarter. This is not conducive to providing excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut the car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
Locksmith companies are the best option. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced and have the equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.
The majority of standard keys are cut using a specific key duplicator, with the original key acting as the template. A blank key is put on the opposite side and both keys move through the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. Certain types of keys like fobs and car keys need an extended process since they must be programmed for your vehicle.
Certain keys bear certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however this is just an extra measure to protect against unauthorized copying. However, this doesn't mean the key isn't readable however it could take longer as a locksmith key cutting will have to look over the key to ensure it's not damaged.
Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. It is usually because they possess a unique mechanical characteristic or a strange shape. This is done to stop the keys from being used for stealing items or getting into secure locations.
For these specialty keys, you will have to talk to an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to check whether they have the equipment and know-how to cut keys. If they can cut them, you'll be charged a little more than when you get an ordinary key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it's easier and less expensive to replace the key that has been lost.