Blog entry by Dominik Halverson
Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting keys for cars involves more than just bending a piece metal. It's an art that ensures security and convenience as well as peace of mind for vehicle owners.
Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the correct key cutting key; relevant site, method for your make and model. The process of cutting keys takes a matter of minutes and is cheaper than buying a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the most basic type of car key and date back to the beginning of locking mechanisms for automobiles. They are made with patterns that match the pin settings of a lock to unlock it. Most hardware stores can copy mechanical keys, but locksmiths with the right tools can make copies that are more durable and will work inside your car.
A professional locksmith will also be able to create laser cut keys. These are more secure than a standard mechanical key due to the fact that they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it difficult to make copies and, if someone attempts to make use of a grinder to the key, they will likely leave behind a large amount of metal pieces that won't fit into the lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were created to provide an additional layer of security. They have a tiny chip inside the head that communicates to your car so it knows it's authentic keys. If the chip on the car's key isn't matched, your car will not start. Keys with this type of chip are more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the latest technology in car keys. They are a combination of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can unlock and start your vehicle with this key, and do it by remote. A mobile auto locksmith can design smart keys cutting near me for your car within a matter of minutes, using the latest technology.
Many people may think that they can locksmith cut car keys find a replacement for a damaged or lost mechanical key at hardware stores, but this is not an appropriate method. Most chains do not have the right equipment or highly trained professionals to make a quality key that works in your vehicle. You will save money and be safer if you leave the design of your key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys may be more expensive than standard blanks however, they provide an extra security layer to your vehicle. They are carved from the middle using a laser which allows them to be put in the lock on either side and still work. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
You can tell a laser-cut key apart from traditional bladed keys due to the wider shank with smaller grooves that have been carved. This means the key is more difficult to turn than the standard key and makes it more difficult for thieves to open your car without a lot of time and effort. Keys with this design are also less likely to get stuck in the lock since they are more precise cut.
When you insert a laser-cut key into your lock, it sends a signal to the car's receiver that matches the unique pattern. This signals the car that it's the correct key, and that it is able to be started. If a thief does manage to get their hands on an unauthorised copy of your key, the car's transmitter will not recognize it and will not start.
Laser-cut keys have been used in luxury cars since the 1990s. They cost more to make than regular keys and require special equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace yours quickly and at a reasonable price if you lose it.
Depending on your car, you may need to include a transponder chip into the key to get it to work. It's not something you can do yourself, and car dealerships charge a lot to do it. A good locksmith will be able program your transponder, however they might not have as much expertise as your local dealer.
Transponder chips are incorporated into the keys of a majority of modern cars to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your vehicle's specific ignition system and allow it to confirm that the key is authentic before you start the engine. Even if someone manages to steal the key and replicate it but isn't in a position to start your car because the engine will refuse to start when it doesn't have the proper code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are present in the majority of cars manufactured in the past 20 years. These are essentially radio transmitters that stop your car from starting if you don't have the proper key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft, as thieves had developed many methods to start cars with brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was a solution to all of this because it only allowed the car to be turned on for a brief period of time. It also verified that there was a key fob cut near me inside.
A regular transponder will look like a key made of metal with a top made of plastic. This plastic top contains the actual transponder, which will send a message to your car whenever the key is close to. The signal is a serial number digital which is matched to the transponder inside your car. If the signals are compatible, your car will allow you to operate it. This is among the most effective forms of anti-theft technology manufacturers of cars have implemented as it has made car theft nearly impossible for anyone who does not have a valid key.
Based on the model, there are different types of transponder key that are available. Some keys include a transponder chip in the head. Some also have an accessory fob that houses the key transponder. Key fobs typically feature buttons that can lock/unlock your vehicle or set the alarm and many other functions.
A locksmith can help get you a new transponder to your vehicle, and even programme it if required. This process is usually fairly easy and requires only several steps. The first step is that the new key will need to be cut with an ordinary metal key cutter, which is usually be done at any auto retailer. Then, the blank transponder key must be programmed for your specific vehicle by an auto locksmith who is a professional. The programming process is usually extremely quick and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars use an electronic keyless entry system that requires a fob. The key fob transmits signals to your vehicle to unlock doors or start the engine. If equipped, it can also unlock the boot.
It's important to remember that the car key fob is not like the typical metal key that you may have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that needs to be programmed correctly to fit your specific vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob yourself. It is best to leave the cutting and programming of your fobs for key fobs to experts.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some come with keys that folds inside, much like an ad-hoc switchblade. This lets the fob be smaller and to be stored away when not in use. You can find fobs without the foldable feature that look like a regular-sized key.
If you lose your key fob, it can be a real trouble to obtain a replacement. It may require special tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers typically only offer the key fob that is compatible with the model you have. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your car's security system.
The process of finding an alternative key fob could be relatively simple if you have the correct details. You will be required to know the car's year, make and model. Bring with you a spare key that works.
Get the tools you need: Prior to attempting to program your key fob, consult the manual of the manufacturer to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment. You will need to enter a special mode that may require turning the ignition on and off at a specific number of times, pressing certain buttons or the combination of both. Some manufacturers may even use a flashing light or sound to signal the start of programming mode.
You can take your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest key cutting you to have it cut and programmed. We can assist you in saving time and money by cutting your key fobs at the lower cost than the dealership. Most importantly, we stay open longer than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to work to get your key fob cut and programmed.