The Next Big Trend In The Car Keys Cut Industry
Where to Get Car Keys Cut It is important to have your car keys cut. This will save you a significant amount of money at the dealer. It also prevents you from being stranded without a functioning key. Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone can replace these keys for a fractional price. What type of key will I require? There are several different types of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It doesn't have any encoding, and it is just a piece metal that fits inside the lock. Keys like these are typically found on older vehicles. Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and can be identified as having two or four sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are harder to pick and can help stop burglaries since they require more strength to open locks. Another type of key is a transponder that has a microchip that is programmed to allow the car to start. This technology can help reduce theft since the key is only compatible with the vehicle in question. Transponder keys can be slightly more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide greater security. If you require replacement of a key, the AutoZone store nearest you will have the needed parts and know-how. Simply provide them with the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest. Some modern cars have a remote control that must be programmed into the car's computer to function. This requires specialized software and tools. Although many prefer to call their dealer for this service, it's not always necessary. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement keys/fobs that are available for much less than you'd pay at a dealership. Before you purchase take a look, make sure you are aware that these keys are hackable, so make sure you get 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 of your vehicle to provide you with the correct key blank, which they cut using precision machinery on-site. However, certain modern car keys like fobs also come with transponder chips that require special programming for the particular vehicle. It is possible to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores however they do not have the equipment to reprogram or clone the chip. A typical key duplication process for a standard car key involves an associate choosing the appropriate key blank and putting it on your current key to serve as an example. The key's original contours are traced by a machine in order to create a duplicate. Bring your original key in case it has small scratches. cost to get a key cut will be incorporated into the new key. Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the key of all automobiles. It is helpful to have the year model, make and year of your vehicle together with your remote fob or the key to ensure that we choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores will also program the new key if the vehicle is a push-button start model. What equipment do I require? Modern key blades require precision tools to ensure the best cut that is required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that can be only available from authorized key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores with the appropriate tools for the task. The majority of vehicles 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 feature that started in the 1990's to stop rising car theft around Australia and has since become the norm for all new cars currently sold. This means a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut before being programmed to the specific car you own, which can be a lengthy and costly process. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to do this for you and all you need is your current working key that you want duplicated and, if possible the year, make and model of your car to help us identify the right code to program your new key. It could be worthwhile to get an extra key designed for your car with a push-button start. This key will have a 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 will need your car key, and, if it is possible the year the make and model of both keys, so that we can determine which key has transponder and then program it to your vehicle. Can I cut a key on my own? Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They use a machine that tracks the contours of the original key in order to make a precise replica. This method is suitable for older keys that do not have chips. Modern vehicles require a key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy task and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This type of job is best for locksmiths who have access to the tools and equipment required. You can also visit an automated key cutting kiosk such as one run by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all types of keys. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other specialty keys must be sent to be processed. Make sure that you aren't trying to create a duplicate of a key with “Do Not Duplicate” on it. If this is the case, you'll have contact a locksmith for assistance. A locksmith can be more convenient by coming to your home or work. They can cut a key and change the fob's settings if needed. You won't have to travel to the store and stand in an endless line. Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology, but the key-cutting process is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are large corporations that have strict rules in order to maximize their profits. They report to car companies who report to investors and shareholders that expect monetary gains every quarter. These circumstances are not conducive to good customer service when it comes to cutting car keys. Where can I get a key cut by locksmiths? You can get keys cut at hardware stores and self-service key copy kiosks however the best option is a locksmith firm. They are licensed and experienced and have the tools to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they are able to assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip. Most standard keys are cut by a key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as the template. A blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys move simultaneously across the cutter's specialized cutting machine, creating a copy of the original key. Certain types of keys like fobs and car keys need an extended process since they have to be programmed for your vehicle. Some keys have some keys have a “do not duplicate” mark on them, but this is merely a security measure to prevent unauthorized copying. However, this doesn't mean keys cannot be copied. However, it will take longer as a locksmith has to inspect the key to make sure that it's not altered. Certain keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that they have a unique mechanical feature or have a peculiar shape. This is done to stop keys from being used to steal items or gaining access to secure areas. For these special keys, you'll have to contact an experienced locksmith in your area or go to their website to check whether they have the equipment and knowledge to cut keys. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than having a standard key cut at the hardware store or a self-service kiosk, but it will be less expensive and less stressful than having to replace keys for your car that have been lost.