10 Tips To Know About Getting A New Car Key Cut

Getting a New Car Key Cut
You can save money when compared to the dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create keys replacements for all vehicle models and key types, including fobs that require programming.
Laser cut keys have thicker shanks and less grooves carved out. They also have transponder chips that must be programmed to your vehicle. This process can be more time-consuming and complicated, but it's still less expensive than visiting a dealer.
What Kind of Keys Do I Need?
When replacing the car key that was lost, the kind of keys you have is a major factor. If your car is old and you have a traditional type of key, you can get the replacement from many hardware stores or locksmiths. They are simple to duplicate and come with a simple, precise ridge cut into the side.
Most modern cars use electronic keys. They have a transponder chip built in that sends a message to the vehicle when they are put into the ignition. This system is designed so that unauthorized users cannot start your car or open doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart key when you lose it since they need an electronic chip. It's a good idea to have a spare key available and leave it with an individual in your family or with a acquaintance in the event that you lose your original.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, it may or not be possible to replace a lost smart key with an aftermarket version. If your vehicle does not come with this feature, you will need to contact a locksmith or visit the dealership. They will need to have proof of ownership as well as an ID photo to buy the new key for you, and they'll need to program it to your car's security system.
This process can take up to an hour. It's also more expensive than purchasing an ordinary copy of the key. The cost for a laser-cut key fob will differ between $50 and $100.
While you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. Always keep a spare key in your pocket, or with a trusted friend. Keep your eye on the keychain when it moves.
You may want to consider purchasing an aftermarket car key online if you want to save money. These keys are usually priced at around 75% less than the price a dealer would cost. You will still have to cut them and program them to your vehicle. Call around to find the most affordable price in your area.
How Long Will It Take?
If you're a person who forgets where they keep their keys or is prone to losing them, it may be the time to get an extra car key. You'll avoid the hassle of paying for locksmiths to visit or having your car tow away to the dealer when you require new keys. Depending on the type of key it can take anywhere from just a few minutes to few hours to create a new key.
key cutting cost can cost upwards of $200 to get a replacement key if you lose the only one. You'll need to pay for having your car towed by a dealer who will order and program the new key. You'll also have to pay for any labor costs that are associated from the procedure. A spare key now is much better than having to pay for an upgrade later.
A hardware store or locksmith can cut traditional car keys in a short time. They typically have slightly larger shanks and have fewer grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. However, if you need the replacement of a key fob, it's likely to take a bit longer as they must be programmed with the car's computer. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer can complete this task in the majority of instances, but you should call ahead first to determine what their charges are and how long it will take them to complete the task.
At all Mister Minit locations we have the equipment and expertise to duplicate your existing car keys or fobs. You'll be required to bring the original key you want duplicated along with the year, make and MODEL of your vehicle to determine the kind of transponder chip the key has inside. The year, make and model will also help us know the type of key fob you'll need.
Another option for those who are worried about losing your key fob is to visit a dealer who makes the model of car you drive. The dealership will need to program the key fob using your car's computers in case you need a replacement. They will need to have proof of ownership such as your registration or title papers to do this. You can also buy an extra third-party car key and then reprogram it yourself. You'll have to read the owner's manual of your car to learn how to do this, since it varies from one manufacturer to the next.
Are There Any Limitations on the production of a key Without the Original?
You can get a standard car key made of metal from an auto locksmith or in some cases, even a hardware shop when you own an older automobile. This is because older cars do not use specialized electronic components, such as chips. The latest cars could use transponder keys which require a laser-cutting device called sidewinder to duplicate the key. The newer keys may also include a programmed chip that stops your car from starting when the original key isn't in close proximity to ignition.
If your car has one of these advanced keys, it's important to know that you will probably need to go to a dealer to have a replacement key created without the original. This could be expensive particularly if you need to transport your car to the dealer to set up the key.
A cheaper option is to contact locksmiths, who can usually cut and program an exact copy of your key at around half the cost of a dealership. It's important to do this before you lose your car keys, since it can save you lots of money in the long run when you're unable to locate them.
Can I get a key made at AutoZone?
Modern automobiles are equipped with the latest security features, but still rely on the keys to start and unlock them. If you lose your keys, getting a new one is not as easy as a trip to the self service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Modern car keys must be programmed to security of the vehicle and include a transponder chip unique to each vehicle.
Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations have the technology and expertise to provide these services. If you have a key fob, or even a traditional key with you an associate from the store, they will assist you in programming it for your vehicle on-site.
The basic process for cutting a car key involves using a machine to copy the contours of a working original key. A blank key is put on one side of the duplication machine, and an existing key is placed on the other side. Both are aligned by a special tool. The machine moves the blank key forward and back, cutting out the desired shape. The result is an original key that matches exactly the dimensions of the original.
When it comes to creating a spare car key however, things get more complicated. The year and make will determine the type of key you require. It is cut by a professional in order to match your car. A lot of dealerships have the equipment, but you can also find a locksmith to do this work for less. Find out if the locksmith belongs to the Associated Locksmiths of America.
If you have an ordinary key, you can often purchase replacements on the internet for less than visiting a dealer and having them cut and programmed for you. You can find them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites designed for this purpose.
If you own a more complicated key or a key fob, you'll need to visit the dealer or a locksmith to get it replaced. You can have a key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership, but the programming will cost you. You can cut down on these costs by having a spare key created now.