Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Cutting your car keys is a critical service that can save you from a significant expense at the dealer. This can also protect you from being left stranded in the event that your key is damaged.

Modern keys come with transponders that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the equipment to produce 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 key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encoder, and is just a piece of metal that fits inside locks. Keys like these are typically used in older vehicles.

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 locate and can aid in preventing burglaries because they require additional strength to open the lock.

Transponder keys are a different kind of key. They have a microchip programmed to start your car. This technology reduces theft because keys is only compatible with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys may be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.

Most times, when you require a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it right away. Just give them your vehicle's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL and they'll take care of the rest.

Some modern cars have remote controls that have to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle to function. This requires special tools and software. Many people prefer to contact their dealership to get this service however, it's not always needed. You can also search on the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available at a much lower cost to get car key cut than what you'd pay at a dealership. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these keys can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.

Where can I have a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths are able cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year and make of your vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key blank, which they cut using precise machinery on site. Some modern car keys, such as fobs, have transponder chips that require special programming. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they will not have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.

A typical process for duplicating keys for a standard car key involves a person selecting the correct key blank and putting it on your current key to serve as an example. A machine then trace the original contours of the key to make the duplicate. Bring in your original key if it has any small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the tools needed to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your car handy along with the remote fob or the key so that we can select the right blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if your car is a push-button start model.

What equipment do I require?

Modern key blades require precise tools to guarantee the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting the new car key is much more complex than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that is only available from authorized locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores with the right tools for the job.

The majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chip integrated into the key fob. This chip must be programmed into your vehicle before it can be used. This security feature was introduced in the 1990s to counter the increasing incidence of car keys cut by code theft in Australia. It has since become standard for all new cars sold today.

This means a spare or replacement key will need to be laser cut before being programmed to your specific car which is a lengthy and costly procedure. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the tools and experience to duplicate your key. All you have to do is bring your key from the previous one and, if you have it provide the year, model and make of your vehicle so we can identify the correct code to program your new key.

If you have a newer car, it could be beneficial to have an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature with an electronic key fob (which can be programmed for the vehicle separately). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need to bring is your car key and, if possible the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can determine the nearest key cutting that has a transponder chip, and have it properly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I cut my own keys?

Many hardware stores and big box retailers offer a key-cutting service for a fee. They employ a machine that tracks the contours of your original key to produce a exact replica. This method works for older keys that do not include a chip. Modern cars require that a key fob be programmed. This is a difficult task that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this type of work, as they have the necessary equipment and tools.

You can also visit an automated key cutting kiosk such as one run by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they are not able to cut all kinds of keys. Certain keys that are common can be copied. Other keys that are special have to be mailed in order to be processed. Make sure that you aren't attempting to make a copy of a key with "Do Not Duplicate" on it. You'll have to contact a professional locksmith if this is the situation.

A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your home or work. They can quickly cut keys and even reprogram your fob if necessary. You will not 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. The process of cutting keys may not be their expertise. They have their own interior technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large companies which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They report to car companies, which in turn, report to investors and shareholders that expect monetary gains every quarter. This does not help in providing good customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys.

Where can I get a locksmith cut a key for me?

You can get keys cut - view emseyi.com - at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys, but the best option is a locksmith firm. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the tools to duplicate all types of keys. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob or transponder chip.

Most standard keys are cut by a special key duplicator, with the original key acting as a template. The blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's specially-designed cutting blade, which creates an exact copy of the original. For certain types of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to prevent unauthorized copies. This is a measure to protect. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied. However, it may take longer because locksmiths must inspect the key to make sure that it's not damaged.

Other keys may be restricted and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is typically because they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape, and is done to stop them from being used to steal items or get into secured locations.

You'll need to contact an area locksmith to find out whether they are able cut these specialty keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith is equipped with the equipment and experience required. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than having a standard key cut at a hardware store or at a self-service kiosk, but it's cheaper and less stressful than replacing keys for your car that have been lost.