10 Quick Tips To Car Keys Cut

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is a critical service that can help you avoid a large expense at the dealer. This can also protect you from being left stranded if your key breaks.

Modern keys have transponders that must be programmed in order to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the equipment to create these key replacements at a fraction of the price.

What kind of key will I need?

There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encryption, and is merely a piece of metal that fits inside locks. They are commonly found on older vehicles.

replacement car key cutting  with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and are identified as having four or two 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 type of key is a transponder that is equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start the car. This technology reduces theft because the key is only compatible with the vehicle in question. Transponder keys are more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they provide additional security.

Most of the time, when you need a replacement key the local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and know-how to replace it immediately. Just give them the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take care of the rest.

Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to work. This requires specialized tools and software. Many people prefer to call their dealer for assistance but it's not always required. You can also search the internet for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at a lower cost than you would spend at a dealership. However, before you start looking be aware 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 keys for cars. They will need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. Some modern car keys, such as fobs, also come with transponder chips that require special programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able to copy the keys, but they won't have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.

A typical key duplication procedure for a car key of the traditional type involves an associate selecting the correct blank and then putting it in place against the key you have already used as an example. The key's original contours are then traced by a machine in order to create duplicates. It is recommended to bring your original key if it has a few small scratches as they will be used to create the new key.

Mister Minit stores have the specific equipment required to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is helpful to keep the year, make and model of your vehicle together with the key or remote fob so that we can accurately choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if your car is a push-button start model.

What equipment do I need?

Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a flawless cut. The process of cutting a new car key is more complicated than simply copying one from an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools to handle the task.

The key fobs of most vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the rising rate of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become standard for all new vehicles sold today.

This can be a lengthy and expensive procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A replacement or spare key must be laser cut and then programmed for your particular car. Most Mister Minit locations are equipped with the necessary equipment and expertise to duplicate your current key. All you have to do is bring your existing key and, if you can provide the year model, make and year of your vehicle so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.

If you have a newer vehicle, it might be worth having a spare key cut to your push button start car with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the car separately). Finding a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a quick and simple process at many Mister Minit stores. All you need is your car keys and, if it is possible the year, makes and models of both keys, so that we can identify the key that has a transponder chip, and be able to program it correctly to your vehicle.

Can I cut my own key?

Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a cost. They use a machine that tracks the original contours of your key to produce an exact duplicate. This method is suitable for older keys that do not contain a chip. Modern automobiles require a key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy task, and requires specialized equipment and expertise. This kind of work is best for locksmiths who have access to the equipment and tools needed.

You may also visit a key-cutting kiosk such as one run by KeyMe. They are convenient but do not cut every type of key. Some common keys can be copied, while other keys that are special need to be sent in for processing. Be sure to avoid trying to create a duplicate of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll need to call an experienced locksmith if this is the situation.

A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your workplace or home. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob, should it be required. This will save you the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in the line.

Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know everything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics however, key cutting is not their expertise. Dealerships are large corporations which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom line. They report to car companies, which report to shareholders and investors who anticipate monetary gains each quarter. This is not conducive to providing excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut car keys.

Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?

Keys can be cut at hardware stores and self-service kiosks for copying keys However, the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced, and have the equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also assist you to 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 placed on the opposite side, and both keys are pushed through the machine's cutting blade, which creates a duplicate of the original. For certain types 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 bear some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just an additional security measure to stop the copying of keys that are not authorized. This doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it will take longer because locksmiths have to examine the key to make sure it is not tampered.

Other keys may be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually because they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape and is done to prevent them from being used to steal objects or get into secured locations.

For these specialty keys, you will need to speak with a local locksmith or visit their website to determine if they have the equipment and expertise to cut keys for them. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at a hardware store or at self-service kiosks, but it will be cheaper and less stressful than replacing keys for your car that have been lost.