Where to Get Car Keys Cut
Cutting your car keys is a crucial service that will save you from a significant cost at the dealership. It also keeps you from being stuck without a working key.
Modern keys come with transponders that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the equipment to create these key replacements at only a fraction of the cost.
What type of key do I need?
There are many kinds of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encoding, and it is just a piece of metal that fits into a lock. Keys of this type are often found in older automobiles.
A four-sided or double-sided key is a safer option 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 they can be used to prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open the locks.
Transponder keys are another type of key. They have an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your car. This technology reduces theft because keys is only compatible with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than traditional keys or mechanical keys but they offer increased security.
The majority times, when you need a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the parts and the knowledge to complete it quickly. All you need to do is give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you.
Some modern vehicles have a remote fob that must be programmed with the car's computer with specialized tools and software. Although many prefer to contact their dealership to get this service but it's not always required. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. However, before you make this purchase it is important to remember that these keyfobs are susceptible to being hacked so be sure to choose a reliable source.
Where can I get a key cut?
Most 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 precision machinery on-site. Certain modern car keys, such as fobs, also have transponder chips that require specific programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they won't have the equipment required to copy the chip or program it.
A typical key duplication procedure for a traditional car key involves a person selecting the correct blank and positioning it against your existing key to act as an outline. car key cutting cost follows the initial contours of your key to create the duplicate. Bring your original key in case it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate most cars. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your car handy along with the key or remote fob so that we can accurately choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also help by programming the new key into your vehicle, if it's a push button start model.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require precision tools to ensure the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is much more complicated than simply copying one from an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only available from authorized key cutters, locksmiths 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. This chip needs to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. This is a security measure that was introduced in the 90's to fight the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles currently sold.
It can be a lengthy and costly process. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut and then programmed to match your specific car. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the expert equipment and experience to do this for you and all you need is your current working key that you want duplicated and, if possible the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it may also be worth having a spare key cut to your push button start car that includes the key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle independently). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You will need your car key, and, if it is possible the year the make and model of both keys, so we can identify which key contains a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut a key by myself?
Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer key cutting services for a nominal cost. They use machines to follow the contours of your original key in order to create an exact replica. This is applicable to older keys without a chip in them. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and skills. This type of work is best to locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment required.
You can also go to an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every type of key. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other keys with specializations must be mailed to be processed. It is not advisable to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need contact a locksmith for help.
A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your home or workplace. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob should it be required. You will not have to travel to the store and wait in an interminable line.
Dealerships are experts in automobiles however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. The process of cutting keys may not be their expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who in turn, 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 key made by locksmiths?
Locksmith firms are the best option. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they are able to help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of keys are cut by a special key duplicator machine, using the original key serving as a template. The blank key is placed on the other side and both keys are pushed through the machine's specialized cutting blade, which creates an exact duplicate of the original. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process takes longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys are marked with a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just an extra measure to protect against the copying of keys that are not authorized. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied however, it could take longer as locksmiths will need to examine the key to ensure that it's not altered.
Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that they have a distinct mechanical feature or a strange shape. This is done to prevent the keys from being used to steal items or gaining access to safe locations.
You will need to contact an area locksmith to determine if they can cut these special keys. You can also visit their website to determine whether the locksmith is equipped with the equipment and experience required. If they can, you will be charged a little more than if you were to get an ordinary key cut at a hardware shop or a self-service kiosk. However, it's cheaper and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.