Getting a Car Key Cut
Most people believe that they should visit the dealership when they lose their car key. This is not always true.
Modern automobiles use laser cut keys that require transponder chips to function. This makes them harder to duplicate. It is recommended to have these key fobs designed by a locksmith who has special equipment.
Cost
The cost to cut a key for your car is dependent on the model and make of your car. For older models, it is relatively inexpensive to get a key cut at any hardware store or locksmith shop. Newer models have laser-cut keys that require specialized equipment and can be costly to duplicate. These keys have transponder chips in them that must be programmed according to the vehicle you own. These chips are designed to deter thieves from using stolen keys to start your car and will stop the engine from starting unless the right key is used. This is an important feature to include in your car.
It's more expensive to purchase a new key from a dealership, but this is not always necessary. Many people are unaware that they can get keys and fobs for less at a locksmith or hardware store. A professional key cutting service can take up to an hour to duplicate a fob, and just a few minutes to make the standard key.
The process for cutting a new key differs from vehicle to vehicle, based on the security features installed in the key. Modern cars have key fobs which must be programmed to function with the computer system of the vehicle. Certain cars will only work when the key is within a certain distance of the vehicle. Therefore local key cutting is imperative that the key be replaced if it doesn't work.
The key cutting process at AutoZone takes just several minutes for most models and produces. A sales associate will select the right key blank for your year, make and model, then cuts it using the key cutting machine. This process is fast easy, simple, and inexpensive. It could save you time in stressful situations.
Some customers would rather purchase an uncut key, and then attempt to reprogram it themselves at home. This can be a difficult task for those who are not experienced, and it is not recommended if you want to keep your vehicle's security intact. Key cloning isn't safe and your vehicle's computer might not be able tell the difference between the original key and a cloned one.
Accuracy
Cutting your spare key is the most cost-effective and convenient way to replace keys that have been lost in your car. It's also the fastest and most secure as the new key will be a exact duplicate of the original which means that the computer in your car will not be able to differentiate it. This is particularly important in the case where you're the sole driver of the vehicle.
Hardware shops and locksmith services can create duplicates of traditional metal car keys based on the original. These duplicates are made using specialized machines that shape the replacement keys to match the grooves and ridges that were on the original. For most modern cars that have transponder chips, the replacement key must be programmed in order to work with the system.
Fortunately Mister Minit can assist you with this. Bring the key you want copied, and if you can, an image of your car keys to the Mister Minit shop near you. A staff member will then choose the correct key blank that matches your car's year, make, and model. Then, they will make use of machines to trace the contours of your current key and then precisely form the blank. This process takes only less than a minute and is much less expensive than visiting a dealership.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It's a technique that provides security, ease of use and peace of head to car owners. It requires specialized machines and tools to ensure accuracy and performance. The right machine and technique is essential to ensure that the key is functioning properly and doesn't damage the ignition. The key's chip must also be programmed to match the vehicle computer system.
Many new car keys come with a transponder chip or smart chip which allows them to only start the engine if they are programmed for your vehicle. This is a security feature to prevent theft. It makes it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or clone your key. It's important that you only get replacement keys cut by a reputable locksmith who offers professional services and guarantees on service.
If you are getting your car keys cut, be sure they're functioning before leaving the store or when you get home. Call the locksmith right away if you are having problems with your key. This will save you from costly repairs in the future. You will also save time and stress in the event that you lose your car keys. The backup keys can prevent overpayments and also. In the event of an emergency, you can use the spare key to unlock your doors.