Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Cutting your car keys is a crucial service that could save you from a huge expense at the dealership. It also stops you from being stranded without a working key.

Modern keys come with transponders that must be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for a fractional price.

What kind of key do I need?

There are a variety of different kinds of keys. The most basic key is the traditional key. It does not include any encoder, and is just a piece of metal that fits inside the lock. These keys are most commonly found on older vehicles.

Keys with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and are identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to find and could assist in preventing break-ins since they require more strength to open the lock.

Another kind of key is a transponder that is equipped with a microchip that is programmed to turn on the car. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with the particular vehicle. Transponder keys can be slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.

Most times, when you require a replacement key cutting price the local AutoZone store will have the right parts and know-how to replace it immediately. Just provide them with the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take care of the rest.

Certain modern vehicles have remote controls that need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer to function. This requires specialized tools and software. Many people prefer to call their dealer for assistance however, it's not always needed. You can also search online for aftermarket replacement keys and fobs that are readily available for a fraction of the price you'd find at a dealership. But before you do this, it's important to note that these keyfobs can be hacked so be sure to go with a trusted source.

Where can I get the key cut?

The majority of auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To give you the right blank for your key they must know the year and make, along with the model. They can then cut it on site with precision equipment. Some modern keys for cars, like fobs, have transponder chips that require specific programming. You may be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the tools to duplicate or program the chip.

A typical key duplication procedure for a standard car key involves a person selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against the key you have already used as an outline. The machine then follows the original contours of your key to make the duplicate. Bring your original key if it has any small scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys on most cars. It is essential to know the year and make of your car, together with your remote or key so that we can select the correct blank for your replacement. Many stores can assist with the additional step of programming the new key for your vehicle if it's a push button start model.

What equipment do I need?

Modern key blades require specialised precise tools to guarantee the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Making a new key to automobiles is more complicated than copying one that already exists. It requires specialized equipment that is only available in cheap key cutting cutters that have the correct tools.

The key fobs of most vehicles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder which is programmed to your vehicle. This is a security measure that was introduced in the 90's to fight increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new cars that are sold today.

It can be a lengthy and costly process. A replacement or spare key must be laser cut, and then programmed for your specific car. Fortunately, the majority of Mister Minit locations have the specialist equipment and expertise to complete this task for you. All you need is your current working key you wish to have duplicated and, if possible, the year, make and model of your vehicle so that we can determine the correct code to program your new key.

It could be worthwhile to get an extra key for your car key cutting cost that has a push button start. The key will come with a key fob that can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. All you have to bring is your car keys and, if you can the year, makes and models of both keys, so that we can determine the key that has a transponder chip and be able to program it correctly to your car.

Can I cut a key cutting services near me by myself?

Many big-box retailers and hardware stores provide key cutting services for a small fee. They employ machines that follow the original contours of your existing key to produce an exact replica. This method works for older keys that do not include a chip. Modern automobiles require that the key fob be programmed. This is a challenging job that requires specialized equipment and skills. This kind of job is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools needed.

You can also go to an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all types of keys. Some common keys can be copied, but other keys with special features must be mailed in for processing. It is not recommended to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith assistance.

A locksmith can also provide a more convenient option by arriving at your workplace or home. They can cut a key and reprogram your fob if necessary. This will avoid the headache of having to travel to a shop and wait in line.

Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and get keys cut mechanics however, key cutting is not their area of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They report to car companies who then provide quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. These conditions are not conducive to providing good customer service when cutting car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?

You can get keys cut at hardware stores or self-service key copy kiosks, but the best place to go is a locksmith company. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate most types. Additionally, they can help you program a new car key fob or transponder chip.

The original key is used as a template to cut standard keys. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side, and both keys are moved through the machine's specialized cutter and create a copy of the original key. For some key types such as car keys or get keys cut key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a measure to protect. This does not mean the key isn't readable, but it may take longer as locksmiths must look over the key and make sure that it's not altered.

Other keys could be restricted and require proof of ownership before they are cut or copied. This is usually because they have unique mechanical characteristics or are a strange shape, and is done to stop them from being used to steal items or get into secured locations.

You'll need to contact an area locksmith to find out whether they are able to cut these specialty keys. You can also check their website to determine whether the locksmith has the equipment and experience required. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than a standard key cut at a hardware store or at a self-service kiosk, but it's cheaper and less stress-inducing than having to replace keys for your car that have been lost.