10 Things You'll Need To Be Aware Of Getting A New Car Key Cut

Getting a New Car Key Cut

A locksmith for your vehicle can save you money when compared to a dealer. They can create replacement keys for all kinds of vehicles and models, including fobs which require programming.

Laser-cut keys are more robust with smaller grooves. They also have transponder chips that need to be programmed into your car. This process is more complicated and takes more time, but it's still less expensive than visiting an auto dealer.

What kind of keys do I require?

When you are replacing a lost car key the type of key you have is a big factor. If your car is old and has a traditional key, you can find the replacement from many hardware stores or locksmiths. These keys are simple to duplicate and feature a simple and precise ridge cut into the side.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. These keys have an embedded transponder chip that sends a message to the vehicle when they are inserted into the ignition. This system is designed to prevent non-authorized users from starting your car or opening doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart lock if you lose it, as they need a computer chip. This is why it's a good idea to keep an extra car key in your possession and leave a spare with a family member in the event that you lose your original.

Based on the make and model of your vehicle it might or may not be possible to replace the missing smart key with a second-hand version. If your vehicle does not come with this feature, you will have to call an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. You'll need a photo ID and proof of ownership to purchase a new car key. They will then have to program the key to your vehicle's computer.

The process could take up to an hour and it's important to remember that it's more expensive than simply getting a standard key copied. The cost for laser-cut keys will vary between $50 and $100.

While you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. You should always have an extra key in your pocket, or with a trusted person. Keep an eye on your keychain whenever it moves.

Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if you want to save money. You can often find these keys for around 75  percent less than what the dealer would charge. You will still have to cut them and program them to your car. Call around to find the most affordable price in your area.

How long will it take?

If you're the kind of person who has trouble remembering where their keys are or is prone to misplacing keys, it's the right time to purchase a spare car key. You can avoid the hassle of having to pay for locksmiths to arrive or having your car tow away to the dealer when you require an additional key. It can take anywhere from several minutes to several hours to make a replacement key.

It can cost upwards of $200 to replace a key in the event that you lose your only one. This is because you will need to pay for the vehicle to be taken to the dealer, who will have to order and program a new key. Additionally, you'll have to pay for any labor charges that come from the procedure. A spare key now is better than paying for an upgrade later.

A hardware or locksmith can make traditional car keys quickly. They usually have slightly thicker shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you require a key fob replacement it will probably take longer because they have to be programmed with the computer in your vehicle. Most of the time an auto locksmith with a good reputation can do this. It is recommended to contact them ahead of time to inquire about their fees and how long they will be able to complete the task.

At all Mister Minit locations we have the tools and know-how to duplicate your car keys or fobs. Bring the key you would like to duplicate as well as the year, make and MODEL of your vehicle to assist us in determining the kind of transponder chip that is contained within. The year, model and the make will also help us determine what type of key fobs you require.

If you're worried about losing your original, you can also visit the dealer who manufactures the car you drive. If you need a key fob replacement this will take a little longer because the dealership will need to program it using your car's computer. They'll need proof of ownership, like your title or registration documents to complete this. You can also find a third car key as a spare and then reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to consult the manual of your owner to learn how to do this as it will differ between different manufacturers.

Are there any restrictions on making a key that is not the original?

key cutter  can purchase a basic metal car key from an auto locksmith or in some cases, even a hardware store if you have an old automobile. This is because older cars do not use specialized electronic components like chips. However, modern cars could include transponder keys that need a specific laser key-cutting machine known as a sidewinder to create copies of the key. Also, these newer keys could have programmed chips that prevent your car from starting without the original key in close proximity to the ignition.

You'll have to visit an auto dealer if your vehicle has an advanced key. A replacement key without the original key will be made. This could be expensive especially if you need to take your vehicle to the dealer in order to program the key.

A much more affordable option is to contact locksmiths, who will usually cut and program a precise duplicate of your key for less than half the price of an auto dealer. It is a good idea to do before you lose your keys. It will save you money in the long run if you cannot find keys.

Can I purchase a key at AutoZone?

While modern cars have advanced security systems, they still rely on keys to open the car and then start it. It's not as simple as visiting a self-service kiosk in the mall and obtaining an alternative key. Modern car keys must be programmed for security of the vehicle and include an electronic transponder chip that is unique to every vehicle.

Many AutoZone stores have the knowledge and equipment to offer these services. If you have a key fob or even an old-fashioned key, a store associate can assist you in programming it to your car onsite.

A machine is used to copy the contours from a working original car key. A blank key is positioned on one side of the duplication machine, while an existing key is placed on the other side. Both are aligned by a specific tool. The machine then moves the working and blank key back and forth cutting out the desired shape. The result is a new key that matches exactly the dimensions of the original.

The process of creating an extra key for your car may be more complicated. The year and make of your car will determine what type of key you have, which will need to be cut by a professional to use in your vehicle. A lot of dealerships have the equipment, but you can also find a locksmith who will perform this task for less. Make sure you check whether the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually purchase replacements online for cheaper than going to a dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can find them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites specifically designed for this for this purpose.

You'll need to take your key fob, or more complex key to a dealer or locksmith to get it replaced. It is possible to have a key cut by providing the VIN and proof of ownership, but you'll need to pay for programming. You can avoid these costs by having an extra key made now.