Getting a Car Key Cut
Many people believe that they should go to the dealer in the event of losing a car key cuts key. However, this isn’t always the case.
Modern cars use keys made of lasers that need transponder chips to function. This makes them more difficult to duplicate. It is recommended to get these key fobs created by a locksmith with specific equipment.
Cost
The cost to have a car key cut is contingent on the make and model of your vehicle. It’s relatively cheap to get a key made at a hardware shop or locksmith’s shop, for older models. Modern cars come with laser-cut keys that require special equipment and can be costly to duplicate. These keys also have built-in transponder chips that must be programmed to match the vehicle. These chips are designed to deter thieves from using stolen keys to start your car. They will prevent the engine from starting unless the right key is used. This is an important feature for your vehicle.
It is more expensive to get new keys from a dealer but it’s not always necessary. Many people are unaware that they can buy fob and keys for less at a locksmith or hardware store. A professional key cutting service may take as long as an hour to duplicate a fob, and just a few minutes to make an ordinary key.
The process of cutting a new car key is different for each car, based on the security features included in the key. Keys from the past are easier to replace, however modern vehicles have key fobs that must be programmed to work with the car’s computer. For example, some vehicles only work if the key fob is within close range of the vehicle, therefore the key fob has to be replaced to ensure that it functions.
The key cutting process at AutoZone takes only several minutes for most models and produces. Key cutting machines are used to cut the key blanks. A sales associate will choose the correct key blanks for your model year, make, and model. This method is quick and simple, as well as affordable. It could save you time in stressful situations.
Some customers would rather purchase a blank key and try to reprogram it themselves at home. This can be a difficult task for novices and is not recommended if you wish to keep your car’s security secure. Key cloning isn’t safe, and cheapest your vehicle’s computer may not be able tell the difference between the original key and the cloned one.
Accuracy
It’s the cheapest and easy method to replace keys for your car that are lost. It’s also the fastest and most secure, since your new key will be an exact replica of the old one and your car’s computer will be unable to differentiate it. This is particularly important in the case of being the only driver of the vehicle.
Hardware shops and locksmith services can make duplicates of traditional metal car keys that are based on the original. The duplicates are created using specialized machines that shape the keys to match the grooves and ridges of original. For most modern cars equipped with transponder chips the replacement key has to be programmed in order to function with the system.
Fortunately, Mister Minit can help you with this. Simply bring the key you want copied and, if possible take a picture of your car’s keys to the nearest Mister Minit location. Then, a staff member will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model. They will then utilize an instrument that will trace the contours of the existing key and then precisely cut the blank. This process will take only less than a minute and is less expensive than visiting a dealership.
Safety
The art of car key cutting involves more than just cutting a piece of metal. It’s a technique that provides security, ease of use and peace of head to car owners. It requires special tools and machines to ensure precision and efficiency. The right equipment and method are crucial to ensuring that the key works correctly and doesn’t harm the ignition. It also involves programming the chip to work with the vehicle’s computer system.
A majority of new car keys come with an electronic chip or transponder that allows them to start the engine only if it’s specifically programmed for the vehicle you own. This is a measure of security to protect against theft. It makes it more difficult for thieves clone or duplicate 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 assurances of service.
If you have problems with your new key, call the locksmith immediately to fix it. Call the locksmith right away when you encounter issues with your key. This will prevent future expensive repairs. It will also save you time and stress should you ever lose your car keys. The backup keys can stop overpayments from happening as well. In an emergency, you can utilize the spare key in order to unlock your doors.