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. This can also protect you from being stuck when your keys break.
Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed to work with the specific vehicle you have. Luckily that key cutting services near me has the equipment to make these key replacements for less than the cost.
What type of key will I need?
There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It does not have any encoder, and is merely a piece of metal that fits into locks. Keys like these are typically used in older vehicles.
A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure and can be identified by having two or four teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are difficult to pick and can help in preventing burglaries as they require more strength to open locks.
Transponder keys are a second type of key. They are equipped with a microchip programmed to start your car. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide extra security.
Most of the time, if you require a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it immediately. Just provide them with the year, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take care of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the car's computer in order to work. This requires special software and tools. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also look online for after market replacement keys or fobs for much less than the price you'd pay at a dealer. However, before you do this, it's important to note that these keyfobs are susceptible to being hacked so be sure to use a trusted source.
Where can I have a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They'll need the year, make and model of your vehicle to provide you with a proper key blank and cut it with 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 might be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment needed to duplicate or program the chip.
A typical key duplication procedure for a traditional car key is a partner selecting the correct blank and positioning it against your existing key to act as an outline. A machine then trace the original contours of the key to create a duplicate. It's best to bring your original key if it has a few minor scratches as these will be incorporated into the new key.
Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the key of all cars. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your car in hand along with the remote fob or the key so that we can accurately select the right blank for your replacement key. key cutting services near me can assist by programming the new key to your vehicle, if it's one with a push button start feature.
What equipment do I need?
Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a flawless cut. The process of cutting a new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that can be only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the appropriate tools for the job.
The majority of automobiles sold in Australia have a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob that needs to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing incidence of theft from cars in Australia. It has since become a standard feature for all new cars that are sold in the present.
This can be a time-consuming and expensive procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut, then programmed for your particular car. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to do this for you. All you need is the current working key you wish to have duplicated, and if it is possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can determine the correct code to program your new key.
If you have a brand newer car, it could be worthwhile to have a spare key cut for your car with a push button start feature that includes a key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle separately). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You'll need your car key, and if you can, the year, make and model of both keys, so we can determine which key is transponder technology and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide a key-cutting service for a fee. They make use of 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 chips. Modern vehicles require keys to be programmed, which isn't an easy task, and requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.
You can also visit a kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but do not cut every kind of key. Keys that are common can be copied, while other keys with special features must be sent to be processed. You should not try to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need to call a locksmith for help.
A locksmith may also provide the convenience of coming directly to your home or office. They can cut a key and even modify your fob, if required. You won't have to go to the store and stand in an interminable line.
Dealerships are familiar with cars, but they don't necessarily know everything about keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology however, key cutting is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who provide quarterly reports to shareholders and investors. These conditions do not lend themselves to good customer service when it comes to cutting keys to cars.
Where can I get a locksmith cut me a key?
Keys can be cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks for copying keys, but the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed, skilled and have the tools to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key is used as a template to cut the majority of standard keys. A blank key is put on the opposite side, and both keys move simultaneously across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. For certain kinds of keys, like car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys are marked with a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however this is merely an extra measure to protect against the copying of keys that are not authorized. However, this doesn't mean the key cannot be copied, but it may take longer as a locksmith will have to look over the key and ensure it's not tampered with.
Other keys can be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is typically because they have distinctive mechanical features or have a peculiar shape and is done to ensure that they are not used to steal items or get into secured locations.
For these specialty keys, you will have to contact a local locksmith or visit their website to determine if they have the equipment and knowledge to cut keys for them. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than getting a basic key cut at a hardware store or at self-service kiosks, however it will be less expensive and less stressful than having to replace the car key that was lost.