Getting a Car Key Cut
Many drivers believe that they need to go to the dealership when they lose their car key. However, this is not always the case.
Modern cars use keys made of lasers that need transponder chips to function. This makes them more difficult to duplicate. The best way to get the key fobs you want is to work with a locksmith that has specific equipment.
Cost
The cost to have a car key cut will depend on the model and make of your car. It's relatively cheap to make a key at a hardware shop or a locksmith's shop for older models. Newer models have laser-cut keys, which require specialized equipment and can be expensive to duplicate. The keys also come with transponder chips which must be programmed to match the vehicle. These chips are made to prevent thieves from using a stolen key to start your vehicle and will prevent the car from starting unless use the correct key. This is an important feature to have in your vehicle.
It's more expensive to purchase a new key from the dealership however, it isn't always required. Many people are unaware that they can get a key and a fob at the hardware store or a locksmith for less. A professional key cut ting service can take up to an hour to duplicate a fob and a few minutes for the standard key.
The process for cutting a new key is different from vehicle to vehicle, based on the security features included in the key. Keys that are older are easier to replace, while modern cars come with key fobs that need to be programmed to work with the computer of the vehicle. Certain cars will only work when the key is within a certain distance of the vehicle. Therefore the key needs to be replaced if it doesn't work.
The key cutting process at AutoZone takes only a few moments for most models and produces. An associate selects the correct key blank for your year, make and model, then cuts it with the key cutting machine. This process is fast, easy, and affordable. It can save you time in a stressful situation.
Some customers prefer to buy a blank key and reprogram it at home. This can be a difficult task for beginners, and it is not recommended if you wish to keep your car's security intact. Key cloning isn't secure and your car's computer may not be able to tell the difference between the original key and the cloned one.
Accuracy
It's the cheapest and efficient method of replacing keys for your car that are lost. It is also the fastest and most secure method, since your new key will be a duplicate of your previous one. The computer in your car won't be able to discern the difference. This is particularly important when you're the sole driver of the vehicle.
Hardware shops and locksmith services can create duplicates of traditional keys for cars based on the original. These duplicates use specialized machines to cut the replacement key in a way that it matches the original's grooves and ridges. However, for the majority of modern vehicles that have transponder chips, a replacement key must be programmed to work with the car's system.
Fortunately Mister Minit can assist you with this. Simply bring the key that you would like to copy and, if it is possible, a photo of the keys to your car to the nearest Mister Minit shop. Then, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year and make. Then, they'll employ an instrument to trace the contours of your existing key, and then precisely shape the blank. The process takes just a few minutes, and is cheaper than visiting a dealer.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal. It's a skill that offers security, comfort and peace of mind to car owners. It requires specialized equipment and tools to ensure precision and efficiency. It is important to use the right machine and technique to ensure that the key functions properly and does not damage the ignition. It also involves programming the chip of the key to match the vehicle's computer system.
A lot of new car keys come with a transponder chip or smart chip which allows them to only start the engine if they are programmed to your vehicle. This is an anti-theft feature that makes it impossible for thieves to duplicate or clone your key. This is why it's crucial to get your replacement car keys cut only by a reputable locksmith who provides professional services and offers service guarantees.
When getting your car keys cut, make sure they're working before you leave the establishment or when you get home. If you have problems with your new key, call the locksmith immediately to fix it. This will save you from costly repairs in the future. It can also save you time and stress if you ever lose your car keys. A backup key can stop overpayments from happening, too. In an emergency, you could use the spare key in order to open your doors.