Getting a Car Key Cut
The majority of people believe that they should visit the dealership in the event of losing a car key. However, this is not always the case.
Modern cars employ laser cut keys that require transponder chips to work. This makes them more difficult to copy. The best way to have these key fobs made is to work with a locksmith that has special equipment.
Cost
The cost to cut keys for your car is contingent upon the make and model of your car. It's relatively cheap to get a key made in a hardware store or locksmith's shop for older models. However, locksmith key cutting use laser-cut keys that require special equipment to duplicate and could be more expensive. They also come with transponder chips that must be programmed to match your vehicle. These chips are made for preventing thieves from using stolen key to start your vehicle and will stop your vehicle from starting unless you use the correct key. This is an important feature to include in your vehicle.
It is more expensive to purchase new keys from a dealership but it's not always required. Many people are unaware that they can buy a key and fob for less from a locksmith or hardware store. A professional key cutting service could take as long as an hour to duplicate a fob and only a few minutes for the standard key.
The procedure for cutting a new key differs from vehicle to vehicle, based on the security features included in the key. Modern cars come with key fobs that must be programmed in order to function with the computer system of the vehicle. For example, some vehicles only function when the key fob is within the range of the vehicle, so the key fob needs to be replaced in order to ensure it functions.
For the majority of makes and models key cutting takes only a few minutes at AutoZone stores. A sales associate will select the right key blank for your year, make, and model, then cuts it with the key cutting machine. This method is simple, affordable, and quick, and can save you a lot of time in stressful situations.
Some people prefer to purchase an uncut key and attempt to reprogram it themselves at home. It is not recommended for novices to attempt this as it can be a difficult task. Key cloning can be dangerous, and the computer in your car might not be able to tell the difference between an original key and one that has been copied.
Accuracy
It is the most affordable and convenient way to replace keys for your car that are lost. It's also the quickest and most secure method because the new key will be a clone of your old one. Your car's computer will not be able tell the difference. This is especially important in the case of being the only driver in the vehicle.
For traditional car keys made of metal locksmith services, hardware and locksmith stores can cut duplicates based on the original. The duplicates are created using specialized machines that shape the keys to match the grooves and ridges of the original. However, for most modern vehicles that have transponder chips, a replacement key must be programmed to integrate with the system of the vehicle.
Fortunately Mister Minit can assist you in this. Simply bring the key that you would like to copy and, if it is possible you can bring a picture of the keys to your car to the nearest Mister Minit location. Then, a staff member will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model. They will then use an instrument that will trace the contours on your key and then precisely shape the blank. The process takes just a few minutes and is cheaper than visiting a dealership.
Safety
The art of cutting keys for cars involves more than just bending a piece metal. It's a skill that offers security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It requires special tools and machines to ensure accuracy and functionality. The right equipment and method are crucial to ensuring that the key works correctly and doesn't cause damage to the ignition. It also involves programming the chip of the key to match the car's computer system.
The majority of new car keys contain the transponder or smart chip that allows them to start the engine only if they're specifically programmed for the vehicle you own. This is a security feature to prevent theft. It makes it harder for thieves clone or duplicate your key. It is crucial to have your replacement keys cut by a reputable locksmith who offers professional services and service warranties.
If you are getting your car keys cut, be sure they're working prior to leaving the shop or as soon as you get home. If you are having issues with your new key, contact the locksmith immediately to resolve it. This will prevent costly repairs in the future. It will also save time and stress should you ever lose your car keys. Having duplicates on hand may stop overpayments from happening, too. You can also use the spare key to unlock your doors locked in a crisis.