Question: How Much Do You Know About Car Keys Cut?
Where to Get Car Keys Cut It is essential to have your car keys cut. This will save you a lot of money at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being left stranded if your key breaks. Modern keys have transponders that need to be programmed to function with the vehicle. Luckily the local AutoZone has the tools to create these key replacements for less than the cost. What kind of key do I require? There are many different types of keys. The most basic type of key is the standard key. It does not include any encoding, and it is just a piece metal that fits inside a lock. Keys like these are typically found in older automobiles. A four-sided or double-sided key is a safer option and is easily identified by having two or four 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 key that is equipped with a microchip which is programmed to start the car. This technology reduces theft because the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys but they offer increased security. If you are looking to replace keys and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store closest to you will have the necessary parts and know-how. You just need to provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll handle it for you. Some modern vehicles come with remote controls that have to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle to function. This requires specialized software and tools. Many people call their dealer for this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also look on the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. But before you start looking be aware that these keyfobs could be compromised, so make sure you use a trusted source. Where can I get a key cut for me? Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. They will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to give you a suitable key blank and cut it using precision machinery on-site. However, some modern automobile keys, such as fobs, contain transponder chips built-in that require special programming specific to the vehicle. It is possible to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the equipment to reprogram or clone the chip. A typical process for duplicating keys for a standard car key involves an associate choosing the appropriate key blank and positioning it against your existing key to act as an outline. The initial contours of the key are mapped by a machine in order to create duplicates. Bring in secret info if it has scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key. Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys for a variety of cars. It is important to have 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 program the new key if your vehicle is an auto-start model with a push button. What equipment will I require? Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a perfect cut. Making a new key for automobiles is more complicated than replicating one already in use. It requires specialized equipment that can only be found in key cutters that have the right tools. The majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chip integrated into the key fob. It requires to be programmed to your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security feature that was introduced in the 1990's to combat increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles that are sold today. It can be a lengthy and expensive procedure that is time-consuming and costly. A replacement or spare key has to be laser cut, then programmed for your particular vehicle. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to do this for you. All you need is the current working key you want duplicated, and if it is possible the year, year of manufacture and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the right code to program your new key. If you own a newer car, it may also be beneficial to have a spare key cut for your push button start car with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed to the car independently). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. You'll need your car key, and if possible the year and make of both keys, so that we can determine which key has transponder technology and program it to your vehicle. Can I get a key cut by myself? Many hardware stores or big box retailers offer the service of cutting keys for a fee. They use a machine to track the contours of the original key in order to make a precise replica. This method works on older keys that do not have chips. Modern cars require that the key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task and requires special equipment and skills. Locksmiths are better equipped to tackle this kind of job since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools. You may also visit an automated key cutting kiosk such as one run by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they cannot cut all types of keys. Some common keys can be copied, but other keys that are special need to be mailed in for processing. You should not try to copy a key with the words “Do Not Duplicate”. If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith help. A locksmith may also provide a more convenient option by visiting your home or office. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, should it be required. This will eliminate the hassle of having to drive to a store and stand in the line. Dealerships are familiar with cars but they don't know anything 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 that operate under strict policies to maximize their profits. They are accountable to car companies, who then submit quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions are not conducive to good customer service when cutting keys to cars. Where can I get a key cut by a locksmith? You can cut keys at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks however the best place to go is a locksmith business. They are licensed and experienced, and have the necessary equipment to duplicate all kinds of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip. Most standard keys are cut using a key duplicator machine, using the original key serving as a template. The blank key is placed on the opposite side, and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's cutting blade, creating a duplicate of the original. For certain types 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. Certain keys bear certain keys bear a “do not duplicate” mark on them, however it's just a security measure to prevent the copying of keys that are not authorized. However, this doesn't mean the key can't be copied however it could take longer because locksmiths must look over the key and make sure it's not tampered with. Other keys can be restricted, and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a peculiar shape and is intended to stop them from being used to steal objects or get into secure areas. For these keys, you will need to speak with a local locksmith or visit their website to determine whether they have the equipment and know-how to cut them. If they do, expect to pay a little more than getting a basic key cut at a hardware store or at self-service kiosks, however it's cheaper and less stressful than having to replace keys for your car that have been lost.