Marilyn Harvard

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is a crucial service that can save you from a huge expense at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being stranded if your key breaks.

Modern keys come with transponders that must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for the lowest cost.

What type of key do I require?

There are many different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encoder, and is just a piece of metal that fits into locks. Keys of this type are often used in older cars.

Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and are identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can aid in preventing burglaries because they require more strength to open the lock.

Another type of key is a transponder key that has a microchip which is programmed to turn on the car. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with the particular vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they offer added security.

Most of the time, if you require a replacement key the local AutoZone store will have the right parts and knowledge to do it quickly. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you.

Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that need to be programmed with the vehicle's computer and requires special tools and software. Although many prefer to contact their dealership for this service, it's not always necessary. You can also search online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs available at much lower prices than you would pay at a dealer. But, before you start looking be aware that these keyfobs can be stolen, so be sure to use a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut?

The majority of auto key cutting locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to give you a suitable key blank, which they cut using high-quality machinery on site. However, some modern automobile keys like fobs also contain transponder chips built-in that require special programming for the particular vehicle. You may be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the equipment to reprogram or clone the chip.

A typical process for duplicating keys for a traditional car key involves an associate selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against your existing key to act as a template. A machine then traces the original contours of your key to make the duplicate. It's best to bring your original key if it has a few small scratches as these will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of cars. It is helpful to keep the year model, make and year of your vehicle together with the remote fob or key so that we can choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also assist with the additional step of programming the new key to your vehicle if it's one with a push button start feature.

What equipment do I need?

Modern key blades require specialised precision tools to ensure the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. The process of cutting the new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing key and requires special equipment that is only available at authorized key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores that have the right tools for the job.

The key fobs of most cars sold in Australia come with a transponder which must be programmed for your vehicle. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the rising rate of car theft in Australia. It has since become a standard feature for all new vehicles sold today.

This means that a spare or replacement key will need to be laser car key cutting service near me cut and then programmed to your specific car which can be a very lengthy and costly procedure. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to handle this for you. All you need is the working key that you want duplicated and, if you can the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.

It could be worthwhile to get an extra key designed for your push-button start car. The key will come with a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Finding a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. All you need is your car motorcycle key cutting and, if possible, the year, makes and models of both keys so that we can identify the key that is equipped with 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 a key-cutting service for a small fee. They employ a machine that tracks the original contours of your existing key to produce an exact duplicate. This method works for keys older than not have a chip. Modern cars require a key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy task, and requires specialized equipment and expertise. This type of job is best for locksmiths who have access to the tools and equipment needed.

You can also visit a kiosk that cuts keys, like the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they are not able to cut all types of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, while other specialty keys need to be sent to be processed. Be sure to avoid trying to make a copy of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith help.

A locksmith may also provide the convenience of visiting your home or office. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. This will avoid the headache of having to travel to a store and stand in the line.

Dealerships know cars but they don't know anything about keys. The key-cutting process might not be their forte. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations who operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who in turn, report to shareholders and investors that expect monetary gains every quarter. These conditions are not conducive to good customer service when cutting car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?

Locksmith firms are the best choice. You can also purchase keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced and have the necessary equipment to duplicate most types of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a new car key fob or transponder chip.

Most standard keys are cut using a specific key duplicator, with the original key serving as a template. The blank key is placed on the other side and both keys are simultaneously moved through the machine's specialized cutting blade, resulting in an exact duplicate of the original. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer due to the fact that they must be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is merely a security measure to prevent unauthorized copying. This doesn't mean that the key can't be copied. However, it may take longer since a locksmith has to inspect the key to ensure it is not tampered.

Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. It is usually because they possess a unique mechanical characteristic or a unique shape. This is done to stop keys from being used to steal items or entering safe locations.

For these specialty keys, you will have to contact an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to check whether they have the equipment and know-how to cut keys for them. If they do make them, you'll have to pay a bit more than the cost of a standard key from a hardware shop or a self-service kiosk. But, it's cheaper and less stressful to replace a lost key.