Getting a Car Key Cut
Many people believe that the moment they lose their car keys, they have to go to the dealership to get replacements. But, this isn't always the case.
Modern cars use keys made of lasers that need transponder chips to work. This makes them more difficult to duplicate. It is best to have these key fobs created by a locksmith who uses specific equipment.
Cost
The cost of getting a car key cut is contingent on the model and make of your vehicle. It's relatively cheap to have a key cut in a hardware store or locksmith's shop, for older models. Newer models have laser-cut keys, which require special equipment and can be expensive to duplicate. The keys also come with transponder chips that must be programmed to match your vehicle. These chips are designed for preventing thieves from using stolen key to start your vehicle and will stop the vehicle from starting unless you use the correct key. This is an important feature to have in your car.
It's more expensive to purchase new keys from the dealership, but this is not always required. Many people are unaware that they can get fob and keys for less at a locksmith or hardware store. A professional key cutting service may take just a few minutes to duplicate a standard key, and up to an hour to duplicate a fob key.
The process of cutting a new key is different from vehicle to vehicle, depending on what security features are installed in the key. Modern cars come with key fobs that need to be programmed in order to work with their vehicle's computer. For instance, some cars only work if the key fob is within close range of the vehicle, so the key fob has to be replaced to ensure that it functions.
For most makes and models the process of cutting keys takes just a few minutes at AutoZone stores. A key cutting machine is used to cut the key blanks. An associate will select the right key blanks based on your model year, year, and make. This process is fast and simple, as well as affordable. It can save you time in a stressful situation.
Some customers prefer to buy an uncut key and attempt to reprogram it themselves at home. This isn't an easy task for those who are not experienced and is not recommended if you want to keep your vehicle's security secure. Key cloning isn't safe and your car's computer may not be able to discern the difference between the original key and a cloned one.
Accuracy
Cutting your spare key is the most cost-effective and convenient method for replacing keys that have been lost in your car. It's also the most efficient and secure, since your new key will be a exact clone of the old one, so your car's computer will be unable to tell it apart. This is crucial, particularly when you're the sole driver of the vehicle.
Hardware shops and locksmith services can create duplicates of traditional car keys based on the original. The duplicates are created using specialized machines that shape the keys to be a perfect match to the grooves and ridges of original. However, for most modern cars with transponder chips, a replacement key must be programmed to work with the vehicle's system.
Fortunately Mister Minit can assist you in this. Bring the key you want copied, or if you're able, you can take a photo of your car keys, to the Mister Minit location nearest you. Then, auto key cutting will pick the appropriate key blank for your year and make. They will then use a machine that will trace the contours on your existing key and then precisely shape the blank. This process takes only a few minutes, and is less expensive than going to a dealership.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece. It's a technique that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to vehicle owners. It requires special equipment and tools to ensure precision and performance. The right machine and technique is essential to ensure that the key functions correctly and doesn't cause damage to the ignition. The key's chip must also be programmed to correspond with the vehicle's computer system.
A lot of new car keys have a transponder chip or smart chip that allows them to only start the engine when they are programmed for your vehicle. This is a security measure that makes it impossible for thieves to duplicate or clone your key. This is the reason it's essential to have replacement car keys only from a reputable locksmith that provides professional services and offers guarantee of service.
When getting your car keys cut, be sure they're functioning before leaving the shop or the moment you arrive home. Call the locksmith right away if you are having problems with your key. This will avoid costly repairs in the future. It will also save you time and stress if you ever lose your car keys. Duplicates also can prevent overpayments. In the event of an emergency, you can use the spare key in order to unlock your doors.