Getting a New Car Key Cut
You can save money when compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can make replacement keys for all vehicle models and key types including fobs that require programming.
Laser cut keys have thicker shanks with less carved-out grooves. They also have transponder chips that must be programmed into your vehicle. This is a more complicated process and takes longer but it's still less expensive than visiting the dealership.
What kind of keys do I require?
The kind of keys you have is crucial when it comes to replacing keys to your car that are lost. If your car is old and uses a traditional key, you can find the replacement from many hardware or locksmith stores. They are simple to duplicate and come with a simple and precise ridge cut into the side.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. These keys come with an embedded transponder chip which sends a signal to the vehicle after they are put into 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 because 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 another with a family member in the event that you lose the original.
Depending on the make and model of your car It may or might not be possible to replace the missing smart key with a second-hand version. If your vehicle does not have the technology, you'll have to visit a dealership or contact a locksmith. You'll need a photo ID 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 last up to an hour. It is also more expensive than purchasing an ordinary copy of the key. A laser-cut key fob could cost between $50 and $100.
While you wait for your new key to be made and delivered, don't be too worried about losing it. Always keep an extra key in your pocket, or with a trusted friend. Keep an eye on your keychain when it moves.
If you're looking for a way to save money on a new car key, consider buying an aftermarket key on the internet. You can often find these keys for about 75 % less than what dealers would charge. They will still need to be cut and programmable to the specific vehicle you own, however it is important to look around for the most affordable prices in your area.
How Much Time Will It Take?
If you are the type who is prone to losing keys or forgetting them It could be time to get a spare. You'll be able to avoid the expense of having to pay for locksmiths to visit or having your car towed to the dealer when you need an additional key. It could take between a few minutes and a few hours to make an alternative key.
If you lose your keys It could cost you up to $200. You'll need to pay for having your car towed into a dealership which will then order and program the replacement key. You'll also have to pay for any labor costs that are associated with the process. It's better to spend the money to purchase a spare car key today, on your terms than to have the expense of replacing it when you're in the need of it.
Traditional keys for cars can be created quickly by a locksmith or even at a hardware store. They have a slightly larger shank, and fewer grooves than keys cut with lasers. If you're looking to replace the fob of your key, it'll take longer because they have to be programmed into the computer of your vehicle. In the majority of cases the most reliable auto locksmith can handle this. It's best to contact them in advance to ask about their rates and how long they will be able to complete the task.
Most Mister Minit locations have the know-how and equipment to duplicate your existing car fob or key. Bring the key you would like to duplicate as well as the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to assist us in determining the type of transponder chip is contained within. The year, make and model will also let us know what kind of key fob you require.
If you're worried about losing your original, you can go to the dealer that makes the car model you use. The dealership will need to program the key fob using your car's computers in case you need a replacement. To accomplish this, they'll require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title documents. You can also get a third car key as a spare and reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for your car to learn how to do this, as it varies from one manufacturer to the next.
Are there any restrictions on making a key without the original?
You can get a standard car key made of metal from an auto locksmith or, in certain cases, even a hardware shop if you have an old automobile. This is because older vehicles do not have special electronic components like chips. However, newer cars may contain transponder keys that require an exclusive laser key-cutting device called a sidewinder to make copies of the key. The newer keys may also have a chip programmed to prevent the vehicle from starting if the original key is not in close proximity to ignition.
If your car is equipped with one of these advanced keys, you should be aware that you may have to visit a dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be costly, especially if you have to take your vehicle to the dealer in order to program the key.
Contacting a locksmith is a more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a duplicate of your car keys at a cost that is half that of dealerships. It's important to do this before you lose your car keys, as it will save you a lot of dollars in the long run in the event that you are unable to locate them.
Can I Get a Key made at AutoZone?
Modern automobiles are equipped with advanced security systems but still rely on the keys to unlock and start them. If you lose your keys, getting a new one is not as easy as stopping by the self service kiosk at the mall and having it cut. Modern car keys must be programmed to security purposes and come with an electronic transponder chip that is unique to every vehicle.
Fortunately, many AutoZone locations have the tools and experience to offer these services. If you have a key fob, or even a traditional key an associate from the store, they will help you program it to your vehicle on-site.
The fundamental process of cutting a car keys involves the use of a machine to replicate the shape of an original key. A blank key is placed on one side of a duplication machine, while an existing key is on the other. Both are held in place with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working and blank key in a circular motion cutting out the desired shape. The new key will have the original dimensions.
The process of making an extra key for your car can be more complicated. The year and make of your car will determine the type of key you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith in order to use in your vehicle. You can find locksmiths who can do the job at a lower cost than dealerships. Be sure to check if the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You can often get replacement keys online for less than visiting a dealer to cut them and programmed. You can find them by searching "(your year and make)" on websites designed specifically for this use.
If you own a more complicated key or a key fob you'll need go to the dealer or a locksmith to get it replaced. It is possible to have a key cut by giving the VIN and proof of ownership, but you will have to pay for programming. The best way to avoid these costs is to have an extra key created now, so you can use it in case of an emergency.