Getting a New Car Key Cut
An auto locksmith can save you money if as compared to dealers. They can make replacements keys for all types of vehicles and models, including fobs that require programming.
Laser cut keys have larger shanks with less carved-out grooves. They also have built-in transponder chips that need to be programmed to your vehicle. This is a more complicated process and takes longer but can still be cheaper than going to the dealership.
What kind of keys do I require?
When you are replacing a lost car key the type of key you own is a significant aspect. If your car is old and you have a traditional type of key, you can get a replacement at many locksmiths or hardware stores. These keys come with simple, precise ridges cut into one side, and are simple to duplicate.
The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys, which come with integrated transponder chips that sends a signal to the vehicle when it's inserted in the ignition. This system is designed so that unauthorised users are unable to start your car or open the doors. It is more expensive to replace a smart key when you lose it because they need a computer chip. This is the reason it's best to keep a spare car key in the vehicle and leave a spare with a friend or family member in case you ever do lose your original.
Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, it may or not be possible to replace a missing smart key with an aftermarket version. If your car does not have the technology, you'll have to visit a dealership or contact a locksmith. You will require an ID photo and proof of ownership to purchase the new car key. They will then have to program the key into the system of your vehicle.
This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour It's important to remember that it will be more expensive than just getting a standard key copied. A laser-cut key fob will cost between $50 and $100.
While you wait for your new key to be created and delivered, don't stress out too much about losing it. You should always have an extra key in your purse, or with a trusted person. Also, keep an eye on your keychain as it moves.
If you're looking for a way to save money on a replacement for your car key, you might consider purchasing an aftermarket model online. These keys are often priced at around 75% less than what dealers would cost. They'll still have to be cut and programmed for your specific vehicle, however be sure to call around for the best prices in your area.
How Much Time Will It Take?
If you're the type who is prone to losing keys or forgetting them, it might be time to get a spare. You'll save yourself the expense of having to pay for a locksmith to come out or having your vehicle towed to the dealer if you require new keys. It could take between several minutes to several hours to create an replacement key.
It could cost you upwards of $200 to purchase a replacement key if you lose your sole key. You have to pay to have your vehicle towed by a dealer who will then order and program the new key. Additionally, you'll have to pay for any labor charges that come with the procedure. A spare key now is much better than having to pay for the replacement later.
Traditional keys for cars can be created quickly by a locksmith, or at an hardware store. They typically have slightly thicker shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you require an replacement for your key fob, it will probably take longer since they need to be programmed with the computer in your vehicle. A trustworthy auto locksmith or dealer will be able to do this in the majority of cases, but it's better to contact them first to determine the cost and the time it will take for them to complete the work.
The majority of Mister Minit locations have the expertise and the equipment to duplicate your car key or fob. You'll have to bring the key you want duplicated along with the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car to determine the kind of transponder chip your key has inside. The year, model and make will also help us determine what type of key fobs you require.
Another option if you're worried about losing your key fob is to visit the dealer that manufactures the model of car you drive. If you require the replacement of your key fob, it will take a bit longer because the dealership will have to program it using the computer in your car. They will require proof of ownership, like your registration or title documents to complete this. You can also get a spare third car key and reprogram it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual to find out the procedure for doing this since it varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Are there any restrictions on making a key without the original?
If cheapest key cutting near me own an older car you could get a standard key made of metal by an auto locksmith or in some cases, an hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not use specialized electronic components, such as chips. Newer cars may use transponder keys that require a laser-cutting device called a sidewinder to duplicate the key. Also, these newer keys could have programmed chips that keep your vehicle from being started without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition.
If your car has one of these keys, it's important to be aware that you might require a dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be costly, especially in the event that the dealer wants you to have your vehicle towing in the key to be programmed.
Contacting a locksmith is a cheaper alternative. They can cut and program a copy of your car key at a fraction of the cost of a dealership. It is a good idea to do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you cannot find the keys.
Can I purchase a key at AutoZone?
Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they rely on keys to unlock the car and then start it. If you lose your keys, getting a new one isn't as simple as stopping by the self service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Instead, modern keys for cars must be programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle and have a transponder chip inside that is unique to the vehicle you own.
Many AutoZone stores have the knowledge and equipment to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or even a simple key) with you, an associate will cut it and help you program it to your vehicle on-site.
The fundamental process of cutting a car key is using a machine to duplicate the shape of an key. An existing key is positioned on one side of the duplication machine, and a blank key on the other side, and a specialized tool holds both in alignment. The machine then moves the working key and the blank key in a circular motion cutting out the desired shape. The result is an original key that matches exactly the dimensions of the original.
When it comes to making a spare car key, however, things can get more complicated. The year, make, and model of your vehicle will determine what kind of key you have. It will need to be cut by a professional locksmith to work inside your car. There are locksmiths who can cut the key at a lower cost than dealerships. Check whether the locksmith is part of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
If you have an ordinary key, you can usually purchase replacements online for cheaper than visiting a dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can locate them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites designed specifically for this purpose.
You'll need to take your key fob or more complicated keys to a locksmith or dealer to be replaced. It is possible to have a key cut by providing the VIN and evidence of ownership, however you'll need to pay for programming. You can cut down on these costs by having an additional key made today.