Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is important to have your car keys cut. This will help you save money at the dealership. This will also keep you from being left stranded in the event that your key is damaged.
Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily, your local AutoZone has the tools to produce these key replacements at a fraction of the price.
What kind of key do I need?
There are many different types of keys. The most basic type is a traditional key. It doesn't contain any encoding or programming. It is simply cut out of metal and fits inside to a lock. Keys like these are typically used in older vehicles.
A double-sided or four-sided key is a safer option and can be identified by having two or four sets of teeth on the opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to find and could aid in preventing burglaries because they require extra strength to open the lock.
Another kind of key is a transponder key that has a microchip which is programmed to turn on the car. This technology reduces theft because keys is only compatible with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, however they provide additional security.
The majority of the time, if you require a new key the local AutoZone store will have the parts and knowledge to do it immediately. All you have to do is provide them with the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will handle it for you.
Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that have to be programmed by the vehicle's computer to work and requires special tools and software. While many people choose to call their dealer for assistance however, it's not always needed. You can also look on the internet for replacement keys or fobs for much less than the price you'd pay at a dealer. But, before you make this purchase, it's important to note that these keyfobs are susceptible to being compromised, so make sure you use a trusted source.
Where can I get a key cut for me?
The majority of auto locksmiths are able to cut standard keys for cars. To provide you with the right key blank they'll need to know the year, make, and model. They will then cut it on site using precision machinery. Some modern car keys, such as fobs, also come with transponder chips that require specific programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able to copy the keys, but they won't have the equipment required to copy the chip or program it.
The most common method of duplication for an auto key of the traditional type is a user choosing the correct blank key and placing it next to the existing key to serve as an example. The initial contours of the key are traced by a machine to make duplicates. Bring in your original key if it has small scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.
Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the key of all cars. It is essential to know the year and model of your vehicle along with your key or remote to ensure that we select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores will also assist by programming the new key into your vehicle, if it's an auto start model with a push button.
What equipment will I need?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tooling to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to a car is more complex than making copies of one that is already in place. It requires specialised equipment which can only be found in key cutters that have the right tools.
The key fobs in the majority of vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder that must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security feature that started in the 1990's to combat the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars sold today.
This means a spare or replacement key needs to be cut using lasers and programmed to your specific car which can be a time-consuming and expensive procedure. 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 that you want duplicated, and if it is possible, the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.
If cost to get a key cut own a newer vehicle, it might be worth having a spare key cut for your push button start car with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). Getting a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and simple process at many Mister Minit stores. You will need your car key, and if you can, the year the make and model of both keys, so we can determine which key has a transponder and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own key?
Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide cutting keys for a cost. They make use of machines to follow the contours of your original key to create an exact replica. This is applicable to older keys with no chip. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a complicated job that requires specialized equipment and skills. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job because they have the right equipment and tools.
You can also visit a kiosk for cutting keys such as one run by KeyMe. They are convenient, but they do not cut every type of key. Some common keys can easily be copied. Other keys that are special have to be sent to be processed. Make sure that you aren't trying to make a copy of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith may also provide a more convenient option by arriving at your home or office. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, should it be required. It is not necessary to travel to the store and stand in an endless line.
Dealerships are familiar with cars, but they don't necessarily know everything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics, but the key-cutting process is not their expertise. Dealerships are large corporations who adhere to strict guidelines in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who submit quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions are not conducive to providing good customer service when it comes to cutting car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by a locksmith?
Locksmith firms are the best option. You can also get keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip.
The majority of keys are cut by a specific key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as a template. The blank key is put on the opposite side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's cutting blade, resulting in an exact duplicate of the original. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to prevent unauthorized copies. This is a measure to protect. This does not mean the key isn't readable, but it may take more time because locksmiths will need to look over the key to ensure it's not damaged.
Other keys could be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is typically because they have a distinct mechanical feature or a strange shape. This is to stop keys from being used to steal items or entering safe locations.
For these specialty keys, you will need to speak with the local locksmith or go to their website to see if they have the equipment and knowledge to cut keys for them. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than a standard key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it's cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace a lost car key.