Getting a New Car Key Cut
An auto locksmith can save you money if as compared to a dealer. They can create replacement keys for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming.
Laser cut keys have thicker shanks and less grooves carved out. They also include transponder chips that need to be programmed into your car. This is a more complicated process and takes longer however, it is still cheaper than visiting an auto dealer.
What Kind of Keys Do I Need?
When it comes to replacing a lost car key the type of key you own is a significant aspect. If your car is old and uses a traditional key, you can find an alternative from a variety of locksmiths or hardware stores. These keys are easy to duplicate and feature a simple, precise ridge cut into the side.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. These keys have a transponder chip in them which sends a signal to the vehicle after they are inserted into the ignition. The system is designed to ensure that unauthorized users cannot start your car or open the doors. When you lose a smart key, it's more expensive to replace since they require a specific computer chip to perform. This is why it's a good idea to keep an extra car key on hand and leave a spare with a friend or family member in the event that you lose your original.
Depending on your car's model and make You may or may not be able to replace a smart key that is missing by a replacement from an aftermarket. If your car does not have the technology, you'll have to visit a dealership or call a locksmith. They will need to have proof of ownership and an ID picture to purchase a new key for you, and they'll have to program it into the car's system.
The process can take as long as an hour, and it's important to remember that it will be more expensive than simply getting a standard key copied. A key fob laser-cut could cost between $50-$100.
As you wait for your new key, don't worry too much about it. It's a good idea to ensure you have a spare in your pocket or with a trusted friend and it's also wise to keep an eye on your keychain when it's moving around.
You may want to consider purchasing an aftermarket car key online if your goal is to save money. It is common to find these keys for about 75 % less than what dealers would charge. You will still have to cut and program them into your vehicle. 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 they put their keys or is prone to losing them, it may be the time to get an extra car key. A spare can save you the burden of paying for a locksmith or take your vehicle towards the dealership if you are locked out and require an extra key. It could take between just a few minutes to a few hours to make a replacement key.
It can cost upwards of $200 to get a replacement key if you lose your sole key. This is because you have to pay for the vehicle to be towed to the dealership, which will then need to purchase and program a replacement. Also, you'll be charged for the labor cost. Spending money on a spare key now is better than having to pay for the replacement later.
Traditional keys for cars can be made quickly by a locksmith or at the hardware store. They usually have slightly thicker shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you're looking to replace the fob of your key, it will take longer as they have to be programmed into the car's computer. In the majority of cases the most reliable auto locksmith is able to do this. It is recommended to contact them prior to the time to ask about their rates and the time it will be able to complete the task.
At the majority of Mister Minit locations we have the equipment and expertise to duplicate your current car keys or fobs. Bring the key you wish 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 in the key. The year, model and make will also assist us in determining the type of key fob you need.
If you're worried about losing your original, you can also visit the dealer who manufactures the car brand you drive. The dealer will need to program the key fob with your car's computers if you require an alternative. get car key cut will need to have proof of ownership, like your title or registration documents for this. You can also purchase an extra third-party car key and reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for your car to see how to do this because it differs from one manufacturer to the next.
Are there any restrictions on Getting a Key Made Without the Original?
You can purchase a standard car key made of metal from an auto locksmith, or, in some cases even a hardware store in the case of an older automobile. This is because older cars do not have specialized electronic components such as chips. However, newer vehicles may include transponder keys that need a specific laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder to make copies of the key. Additionally, these keys may have programmed chips that keep your car from starting without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition.
If your car is equipped with one of these keys, it is important to know that you will probably need to go to an auto dealer to get an alternate key made, without the original. This can be expensive particularly if you need to take your vehicle to the dealer to program the key.
A locksmith's call is a cheaper alternative. They can cut and program a copy of your car keys at a cost that is half that of dealerships. It is essential to get this done prior to losing your car keys, as it will save you lots of money in the end if you can't find them.
Can I get a key made at AutoZone?
Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they still rely on keys to unlock the car and then start it. It's not as simple as a trip to the self-service kiosk in the mall and obtaining a replacement key. Modern car keys must be programmed for security purposes and come with an electronic transponder chip that is unique to each vehicle.
Fortunately, many AutoZone locations have the tools and know-how to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or even a simple key) with you, an associate will cut it and then help you program it to your vehicle on the spot.
The fundamental process of cutting a car key is using a machine to duplicate the contours of a working original key. A blank key is put on one side of a duplication machine, and an existing key is on the other side. Both are held in place by a special tool. The machine moves the blank key back and forward, cutting out the desired shape. The new key will have the original dimensions.
When it comes to making a spare car key it can be more complicated. The year the make, model, and year of your car will determine what kind of key you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith in order to use in your vehicle. Many dealerships carry the required equipment, but you can also find a locksmith to perform this task for less. Verify whether the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You can often get replacement keys online at a lower price than going to a dealer to cut them and programmed. You can find them on sites specifically designed for this purpose, as well as by searching for "(your year, make, and model)."
If you have a more complex key or key fob, you will likely have to visit the dealer or a locksmith to have it replaced. You can have a new key made by providing your VIN and proof ownership, however, the process will cost you. The best way to avoid these costs is to get an extra key created in the near future, so that you can use it in the event of an emergency.
