Getting a New Car Key Cut
A locksmith for your vehicle can save you money if as compared to dealers. They can create replacement keys for all vehicle types and models, including fobs which require programming.
Laser cut keys have longer shanks and less grooves carved out. They also come with transponder chips that must be programmed to your vehicle. This procedure can be complex and time-consuming, however it is still cheaper than going to a dealer.
What kind of keys do I need?
When it comes to replacing a lost car key, the kind of keys you have is a major aspect. If your car is old and you have a traditional type of key, you can get the replacement from many hardware stores or locksmiths. These types of keys have simple, precise ridges that are cut into one side and are simple to duplicate.
The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys that have a built-in transponder chip that transmits a signal to the vehicle when it's inserted in 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. It's more costly to replace a smart key if you lose it, as they require an electronic chip. It's a good idea keep a spare key in your possession and leave one with a family member or friend in case you lose the original.
Depending on the make and model of your car it might or may not be possible to replace the missing smart key with a second-hand version. If yours does not have this feature, you will require contacting an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. They will require proof of ownership and a photo ID in order to buy a new key for you, and then they'll need to program it into the car's system.
The process can take up to an hour. It's also more expensive than getting the standard version of keys. The cost of a laser-cut key fob will vary between $50 and $100.
While auto key cutting machine waiting for your new key to be created, try not to worry too much about losing it. You should always keep a spare key in your pocket or with a trusted companion. Also, keep an eye on the keychain as it moves.
Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if you wish to save money. It is common to find these keys for about 75 percent less than the price dealers would charge. They will still need to be cut and programmed to the specific vehicle you own, however it is important to check around for the best prices in your region.
How Long Will It Take?
If you're one of those who is at risk of losing or forgetting your keys It could be time to purchase an extra. You'll be able to save yourself the hassle of paying for locksmiths to visit or having your car towed to the dealer when you require a new key. It could take between several minutes to a few hours to make an replacement key.
It could cost you upwards of $200 to replace a key if you lose the only one. This is because you will need to pay for the car to be towed to the dealer, who will have to order and program a replacement. Also, you'll be charged for labor costs. Spending money on a spare key now is much better than having to pay for the replacement later.
A locksmith or hardware store can create traditional car keys in a short time. They have a slightly more robust shank and less grooves than keys cut with lasers. If you're looking to replace the key fob, it will take longer as they will need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer will be able to do this in the majority of instances, but you should contact them to find out what their rates are and how long it will take them to complete the task.
At most Mister Minit locations we have the equipment and expertise to duplicate your car keys or fobs. You'll need to bring the key you'd like duplicated along with the year, make, and MODEL of your car to help us determine what type of transponder chip your key is equipped with. The year, model and make will also assist us in determining what type of key fobs you require.
Another option if you're worried about losing your key fob is to go to the dealer that manufactures the model of vehicle you drive. If you require the replacement of your key fob, it will take a bit longer since the dealer will need to program the key fob using the computer in your car. They will need to have proof of ownership such as your registration or title papers to do this. You could also obtain a third car keys as a spare and reprogramme it yourself. You'll have to check the owner's manual to find out how this is done since it will differ between different manufacturers.
Are there any restrictions to making a key that is not the original?
You can purchase a basic metal car key from an auto locksmith, or in some cases, even a hardware store in the case of an older car. This is because older vehicles don't have specialized electronic components like chips. However, newer cars may contain transponder keys that require a special laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder make copies of the key. Also, these newer keys could have chip-programmed circuits that prevent your vehicle from starting without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition.
If your car has one of these keys, it is important to be aware that you might have to visit an authorized dealer to have a replacement key created without the original. This could be expensive especially if you need to take your vehicle to the dealer to set up the key.
A much more affordable option is to call a locksmith, which can usually cut and program an exact duplicate of your keys for about half the cost of a dealership. This is something you should 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 Created at AutoZone?
While modern cars have advanced security systems, they still rely on keys to unlock the car and start it. If you lose your key, getting a new one is not as easy as a trip to the self-service kiosk in the mall and having it cut. Modern car keys need to be programmed for security purposes and come with a transponder chip unique to each vehicle.
Many AutoZone stores have the expertise and equipment to provide these services. If you have a key fob, or even a traditional key with you an associate from the store, they will assist you in programming it for your car onsite.
A machine is used to copy contours of an original car key. An existing key is positioned on one side of the duplication machine and an uncut key is placed on the other, where the specialized tool keeps them in alignment. The machine then moves the working and blank key back and forth cutting out the desired shape. The new key will have the dimensions of the previous one.
The process of creating an additional key for your car may be more complex. The year and make of your vehicle will determine what kind of key you own, which will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith to work in your car. There are locksmiths who can cut the key for less than dealerships. Make sure you check whether the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
It is common to find replacement keys online at cheaper prices than going to a dealer to have them cut and programmed. You can locate them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites created 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 usually get a key cut by providing the VIN and evidence of ownership, however you'll need to pay for programming. You can save these costs by having a spare key created now.