3 Ways That The Car Keys Cut Can Affect Your Life
Where to Get Car Keys Cut
It is essential to have your car keys cut. This can save you a lot of cash at the dealer. This will also keep you from being stuck when your keys break.
Modern keys include transponders that require programming to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone has the capacity to replace these keys at a fractional price.
What kind of key do I require?
There are several different types 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 inside a lock. They are commonly used on older cars.
A four-sided or double-sided key is more secure 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 pick and can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.
Another kind of key is a transponder that has a microchip which is programmed to turn on the car. This technology can help reduce theft because the key can only be used with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than mechanical or traditional keys, but they do provide extra security.
If you require replacement of keys and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store closest to you will have the necessary parts and know-how. Simply provide them with the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take care of the rest.
Certain modern vehicles have a remote control that must be programmed into the vehicle's computer in order to work. This requires special tools and software. Many people call their dealer to get this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also look on the internet for replacement keys and fobs that are readily available for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. But before you make this purchase, it's important to note that these keyfobs could be compromised, so make sure you go with a trusted source.
Where can I get the key cut?
Most auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. To provide you with the correct key blank they must know the year and make, as well as the model. They can then cut it on site using precision machinery. However, some modern automobile keys, like fobs, also have built-in transponder chips which require special programming for the particular vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy these keys, but they don't have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.
A typical key duplication procedure for a car key of the traditional type is a partner selecting the correct key blank and putting it on your current key to serve as an outline. The original contours of the key are traced by a machine to create duplicates. Bring auto key cutting in case it has any small scratches. These will be added to your new key.
Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys on most cars. automotive key cutting is helpful to keep the year model, make and year of your car handy along with the remote fob or the key so that we can accurately choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if your car is an auto-start model with a push button.
What equipment do I require?
Modern key blades require specialised precision tools to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key for a car is more complex than copying one that already exists. It requires specialized equipment, which is only available in key cutters equipped with the correct tools.
The majority of cars sold in Australia come with a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob. It needs to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security measure that was first introduced in the 1990's to combat the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars that are sold today.
It can be a lengthy and expensive process. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut, and then programmed for your particular car. Most Mister Minit locations are equipped with the equipment and expertise to duplicate the key you have. All you have to bring is your key from the previous one and, if you can identify the year model, make and year of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key.
It may be worth getting an extra key designed for your car with a push-button start. The key will come with an electronic key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. You'll need your car key, and if you can, the year and make of both keys, so we can identify which key contains transponder technology and program it to your vehicle.
Can I cut my own keys?
Many hardware stores and big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a cost. They use a machine that tracks the contours of your original key in order to produce a exact replica. This is applicable to older keys without a chip in them. Modern cars require that a key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task and requires special equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.
You can also visit the kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all types of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, while other keys with special features must be sent in for processing. Make sure that you aren't trying to make a copy of a key that says "Do Not Duplicate" on it. If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for assistance.
A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your workplace or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, should it be required. This will avoid the hassle of having to drive to a store and stand in the line.
Dealerships are experts in cars however, they are not necessarily experts in keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts but cutting keys is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to maximize their profits. They report to car companies that, in turn, report quarterly to shareholders and investors. This does not help in providing excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut car keys.
Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths?
You can cut keys at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks However, the best place to go is a locksmith firm. They are licensed and experienced and have the equipment to duplicate most types of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.
The original key can be used as a template to cut most standard keys. A blank key is placed on the other side, and both keys move simultaneously across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key. For certain types of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.
Certain keys bear some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, however this is just an extra measure to protect against unauthorized copying. It doesn't mean that the key can't be copied. However, it will take longer because a locksmith has to inspect the key to make sure 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 stop keys from being used to steal items or entering secure locations.
For these special keys, you will need to speak with the local locksmith or go to their website to see whether they have the tools and expertise to cut keys for them. If they do, you will pay a bit more than if you were to get a standard key from an hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it is more affordable and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.