How Car Keys Cut Became The Hottest Trend Of 2023

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is a critical service that can help you avoid a large expense at the dealership. It also prevents you from getting stuck without a working key.

Modern keys feature transponders that have to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for a fractional price.

What kind of key do I need?

There are several kinds of keys. The most basic key is the standard key. It does not include any encoding, and it is just a piece of metal that fits inside the lock. These keys are commonly found in older automobiles.

Double-sided or 4-sided keys are more secure and are identified as having two or four sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are more difficult to locate and can help prevent break-ins because they require extra strength to open the lock.

Transponder keys are another type of key. They have an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your vehicle. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are slightly more expensive than mechanical keys or traditional keys, but they provide greater security.

The majority of the time, if you require a replacement key the local AutoZone store will have the parts and knowledge to do it right away. All you have to do is provide them with the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can take care of it for you.

Some modern vehicles come with remote controls that need to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to work. This requires special software and tools. Many people contact their dealer for this service, but it's not always required. You can also look online for aftermarket replacement keys or fobs at a much lower cost to get car key cut than what you'd find at a dealership. Before you buy take a look, make sure you are aware that these keyfobs can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut?

Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. They will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it with high-quality machinery on site. Certain modern car keys, such as fobs, also come with transponder chips that require specific programming. You might be able to get these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the equipment to reprogram or clone the chip.

A typical key duplication process for a car key of the traditional type is a partner selecting the correct key blank and positioning it against your existing key to act as a template. The machine then follows the initial contours of your key to create a duplicate. It is recommended to bring your original key if it has a few minor scratches, as these will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate keys on most automobiles. It is beneficial to have the year model, make and year of your vehicle together with the key or remote fob so that we can choose the appropriate blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also help by programming the new key to your vehicle if it's a push button start model.

What equipment do I need?

Modern key blades require specialised precision tooling to ensure the perfect cut required by modern ignitions. The process of cutting the new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that can be only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the job.

Most cars sold in Australia come with a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob. This chip needs to be programmed to your vehicle before it can be used. This is a security measure that started in the 1990's to combat rising car theft around Australia and has since become the standard for all new vehicles sold today.

This can be a lengthy and costly process. A replacement or spare key must be laser car Key cutting near me cut and then programmed to match your specific vehicle. Fortunately, most Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to do this for you. All you need is the current working key that you want duplicated and, if you can the year, year of manufacture and model of your car so that we can identify the correct code to program your new key.

If you own a newer car, it may also be worth having a spare key cut to your car's push button start that comes with the key fob (which can be programmed to the car separately). The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need to bring is your car key and, if you can, the year, makes and models of both keys so we can determine which key is equipped with a transponder chip and have it properly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I cut a key by myself?

Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a small cost. They use machines to follow the contours of the original key in order to produce a exact replica. This works for older keys without a chip in them. Modern vehicles, however, require the key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy job and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This kind of work is best for locksmiths, who have access to the tools and equipment required.

You can also visit an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all kinds of keys. Keys that are common can be copied, whereas other specialty keys need to be sent to be processed. It is not advisable to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to call a locksmith for help.

A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your home or work. They can cut a key and even change the fob's settings if needed. You won't have to go to the store and wait in an endless line.

Dealerships are experts on cars but they don't know everything about keys. The process of cutting car keys might not be their forte. They have their own inside technology and mechanics. Dealerships are big corporations that operate according to strict policies to serve their bottom lines. They report to car companies, who in turn, report to investors and shareholders that expect monetary gains every quarter. This is not conducive to providing good customer service, especially when it comes time to cut car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?

Locksmith companies are the best choice. You can also get keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are certified, knowledgeable and have the tools to duplicate most types. They can also assist you to program your new car keys cut and programmed key fob or transponder chip.

The majority of standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator machine, using the original key being used as a template. A blank key is positioned on the opposite side and both keys move simultaneously across the cutter's specialized cutting car machine, creating a copy of the original key. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys and key fobs, the process takes longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Some keys are marked with a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just an additional security measure to stop the copying of keys that are not authorized. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied however, it could take longer because a locksmith will have to examine the key to ensure that it's not altered.

Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. It is usually because they have a distinct mechanical feature or have a peculiar shape. This is to prevent the keys from being used for stealing items or getting into safe locations.

You will need to contact a local locksmith to find out if they can cut these keys. You can also go to their website to determine if the locksmith has the equipment and experience required. If they do make them, you'll have to pay a bit more when you get an ordinary key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it is cheaper and less stressful to replace the key that has been lost.