This Week's Most Popular Stories About Getting A New Car Key Cut

Getting a New Car Key Cut

An auto locksmith can save you money if you compare it to dealers. 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 carved-out grooves. They also come with transponder chips, which need to be programmed to your car. This is a more complicated process and takes more time, but it's still less expensive than going to a dealership.

What kind of keys do I need?

The kind of keys you have is important when it comes to replacing lost car keys. If your car has traditional keys and is older, you can get an alternative in a variety of hardware or locksmith stores. They are simple to duplicate and come with an easy and precise ridge cut into the side.

Modern vehicles are equipped with electronic keys, which come with an embedded transponder chip that sends a signal to the vehicle when it's inserted in the ignition. The system is designed to ensure that unauthorized users cannot start your car or open the doors. When you lose the smart key, it's much more costly to replace since they require a specific computer chip to perform. This is why it's a good idea to keep a spare car key in your possession and leave another with a friend or family member in case you ever do lose your original.

Depending on the model and make You might or may not be in a position to replace the smart key that's missing using an aftermarket replacement. If your car does not have the technology, you'll need to visit a dealership or contact a locksmith. You'll need an ID photo and proof of ownership to purchase the new car key. Then, they will need to program the key to the system of your vehicle.

This process can take up to an hour. It's also more expensive than getting a standard copy of a key. A laser-cut key fob will cost between $50-$100.

While you wait for your new key, don't worry too much about it. Always keep an extra key in your pocket, or with a trusted friend. Keep your eye on the keychain whenever it moves.

Think about purchasing an aftermarket key online if you wish to save money. These keys are often priced at about 75% less than what a dealer would cost. You will still have to cut and program them to your car. Find out the best price in your area.

How Much Time Will It Take?

If you're a person who has trouble remembering where their keys are or is susceptible to losing them, it may be the right time to purchase an extra car key. A spare key will save you the burden of paying for a locksmith or take your vehicle into the dealership if you are locked out and require an extra key. Depending on the type of key you have, it can take anywhere from just a few minutes up to a few hours for someone to make a new key.

If you lose your keys it could cost you up to $200. You'll have to pay for having your car tow by a dealer who will purchase and program the new key. Also, you'll be charged for labor costs. A spare key now is more affordable than paying for the replacement later.

A hardware store or locksmith can create traditional car keys in a short time. They usually have a slightly thicker shank and less carved out grooves than laser-cut keys. If you require an replacement for your key fob, it's likely to take longer as they must be programmed with the car's computer. A trustworthy auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases but it's best to call ahead first to find out the cost and how long it will take them to complete the work.

The majority of Mister Minit locations have the know-how and equipment to duplicate your existing car key or fob. Bring the key you want to duplicate along with the year, make and MODEL of your vehicle to assist us in determining the type of transponder chip that is contained within. The year, model and make will also help us determine what type of key cut place fobs you need.

If you are worried about losing your original, you can go to the dealer who manufactures the car model you use. The dealership will have to program the key fob using the car's computer if you need an alternative. They will require proof of ownership such as your registration or title documents to do this. You can also try to obtain a third car keys as a spare and then reprogramme it yourself. You'll have to read the owner's manual of your car to see how to do this since it varies from one manufacturer to the next.

Are there any restrictions on Getting a Key Made without the Original?

You can get a standard metal car key from an auto locksmith or, in certain cases, even a hardware store in the case of an older automobile. This is because older vehicles do not use specialized electronic components, such as chips. Modern cars may have transponder keys that require a laser-cutting machine, also known as a sidewinder to duplicate the key. These newer keys can also contain programmed chip that prevents your car from starting in the event that the original key is not near to the ignition.

You will need to visit an authorized dealer if your vehicle has an advanced key. A replacement key that is not the original will be created. This can be costly particularly if you need to transport your car to the dealer to program the key.

Contacting a locksmith is a much more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a duplicate of your car keys at a fraction of the cost of dealerships. It is a good idea to do before you lose your keys. It will save you money in the long run if you can't locate them.

Can I purchase a key at AutoZone?

While modern vehicles have sophisticated security systems, they still rely on keys to open the car and allow it to start. If you lose your key replacing it is not as easy as going to the self-service kiosk in the mall and having it cut. Modern car keys have to be programmed to work with your vehicle's security system and must include a transponder chip that is unique to the vehicle you own.

Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or perhaps a standard key) with you, a staff member can cut it and then help program it to your vehicle on-site.

The basic process for cutting a car key is the use of a machine to replicate the shape of an original key. A blank key is placed on one side of the duplication machine, while an existing key is placed on the other side. Both are held in alignment by a specific tool. The machine then moves the working and blank key in a circular motion and cuts out the desired shape. The new key cut service will match the dimensions of the original.

When it comes time to make an extra car key, it can be more complicated. Your vehicle's year and make will determine the type of key you need. It will be cut by a professional in order to match your vehicle. Locksmiths are available who will do the work for less than dealerships. Make sure you check if the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own a standard key, you can often purchase replacements on the internet for less than visiting a dealer and having them cut and programmed for you. You can locate them by searching "(your year and make)" on websites specifically designed specifically for this for this purpose.

If you have a more complex key or a key fob you'll need go to the locksmith or dealer to have it replaced. You can have a new key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership however, the programming will cost you. You can save these costs by having a spare key created now.