4 Dirty Little Details About Getting A New Car Key Cut And The Getting A New Car Key Cut Industry

Getting a New Car Key Cut

You can save money when compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create replacement keys for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming.

Laser cut keys have longer shanks and less carved-out grooves. They also come with transponder chips which require programming into your car. This can be complex and time-consuming, however it's cheaper than visiting a dealer.

What kind of keys do I need?

The kind of keys you have is crucial when replacing keys to your car that are lost. If your car is equipped with traditional keys and is older, you can get the replacement at many locksmith or hardware stores. Keys of this kind have simple, precise ridges cut into one side and are easy to duplicate.

The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys that have integrated transponder chips that sends a signal to the vehicle when it's placed into the ignition. This system is designed in a way that anyone who is not authorized to use it cannot start your car or open the doors. When you lose a smart key, it's more expensive to replace as they require a specific computer chip to perform. This is the reason it's best to keep an extra car key in the vehicle and leave a spare with a family member in the event that you ever do lose your original.

Depending on the brand and model of your car it might or may not be possible to replace a lost smart key with an aftermarket version. If your vehicle does not have the technology, you'll have to visit a dealership or call a locksmith. They will require proof of ownership as well as an ID photo to purchase an additional key for you, and then they will need to program it into your car's system.

The process could take up to an hour It's important to note that it will be more expensive than simply having a standard key copied. A key fob laser-cut could cost between $50 and $100.

As you wait for your new key to be created, try not to worry too much about losing it. Always keep an extra key in your pocket, or with a trusted companion. Also, keep an eye on the keychain when it moves.

If you're looking for a way to save money on a replacement for your car key, consider buying an aftermarket model online. It is common to find these keys for around 75  percent less than the price the dealer would charge you. However, you will need to cut them and program them to your vehicle. Find out the most affordable price in your region.

How Long Will It Take?

If you're one of those who is at risk of losing keys or forgetting them it's time to purchase an extra. You can avoid the expense of having to pay for a locksmith to come out or having your vehicle towed to the dealer when you need new keys. It could take between just a few minutes to a few hours to make an alternative key.

It could cost you upwards of $200 to replace a key if you lose your sole key. This is because you will need to pay for the vehicle to be towed to the dealer, who will then need to purchase and program a replacement. You'll also have to pay for any labor charges that are associated from the procedure. It's better to invest the money for a spare car key today in a time that suits you, rather than to have the expense of replacing it when you're in the need of it.

Traditional car keys can be made quickly by a locksmith or even at the hardware store. They have a slightly thicker shank and have fewer grooves than a keys cut with lasers. If you're looking to replace the fob of your key it will take longer as they must be programmed into the computer of your vehicle. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer will be able to do this in the majority of cases but it's best to make a call to find out the cost and the time it will take for them to complete the job.

Most Mister Minit locations have the expertise and equipment to duplicate your car key or fob. You'll have to bring the key you want duplicated as well as the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car to determine the kind of transponder chip your key has. The year, make and model will also let us know what kind of key fob you require.

Another option if you're worried about losing your original key fob is to go to the dealer that makes the vehicle you drive. The dealership will need to program the key fob with the car's computer if you need an alternative. They will need to have proof of ownership such as your registration or title papers to complete this. You can also find a third car key as a spare and then reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to check the owner's manual for your car to see how to do this because it differs from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Are there any limitations on making a key that is not the original?

If you have an older car you could get a standard key made of metal by an auto locksmith or in some cases, even at the hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not have specific electronic components like chips. However, newer cars may include transponder keys that need a specific laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder to create copies of the keys. Also, these newer keys could have programmed chips that prevent your car from starting without the original key in close proximity to the ignition.

You'll need to visit an auto dealer if your vehicle has an advanced key. A replacement key that is not the original key will be made. This could be costly particularly if the dealer requires you to have your vehicle towing in the key to be programmed.

A locksmith's call is a cheaper alternative. They can cut and program a replica of your car keys at a cost that is half that 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 can't locate them.

Can I get a Key Made at AutoZone?

Modern cars come with modern security systems, but still rely on the keys to start and unlock them. It's not as easy as a trip to the self-service kiosk at the mall and getting an alternative key. Modern car keys need to be programmed to security purposes and come with a transponder chip unique to each vehicle.

Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or even just a traditional key) with you, an associate will cut it and help you program it to your vehicle on- site .

A machine is used to copy contours from a working original car key. A blank key is positioned on one side of a duplication machine, and an existing key is placed on the other. Both are aligned by a special tool. The machine moves the blank key forward and back, cutting out the desired shape. The new key will be able to match the original dimensions.

The process of creating a spare key for your car may be more complicated. The year, make, and model of your vehicle will determine what type of key you have, which must be cut by a professional locksmith to work in your car. There are locksmiths who will do the work at a lower cost than dealerships. Make sure to verify whether the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own an old-fashioned key, you can often purchase replacements online for cheaper than going to a dealer and having them cut and programmed for you. You can find them on websites that are intended specifically for this purpose, and also by searching for "(your year model, make, and year)."

You will need to take your key fob or a more complex key to a dealer or locksmith to get it replaced. You can get a key made by providing your VIN and proof ownership, however, the programming will cost you. You can avoid these costs by having a spare key created now.