Getting a New Car Key Cut
You can save money compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can make replacement keys for all kinds of vehicles and models, including fobs that require programming.
Laser-cut keys have thicker shanks with less grooves. They also have transponder chips, which need to be programmed into your car. This process is more complicated and takes longer however, it is still cheaper than visiting the dealership.
What kind of keys do I need?
The kind of keys you have is essential when it comes to replacing keys for your car that have been lost. If your car is old and you have a traditional type of key, you can find an alternative from a variety of hardware or locksmith stores. These keys are easy to duplicate and feature a simple sharp ridge cut into the side.
Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. They have an embedded transponder chip that transmits a message to the vehicle when they are placed in the ignition. The system is designed to ensure that unauthorised users are unable to start your car or open doors. If you lose a smart key, it's much more costly to replace since they require a specialized computer chip to perform. It's a good idea keep a spare key in your possession and leave one with an individual in your family or with a family member in case you lose your original.
Based on the make and model of your car, 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 go to a dealer or call a locksmith. They will need to have proof of ownership and a photo ID in order to buy an additional key for you, and then they will need to program it to the car's system.
The process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour It's important to keep in mind that it's more expensive than just getting a standard key copied. A key fob laser-cut will cost between $50 to $100.
As you wait for your new key to be made you shouldn't worry too much about losing it. It's a good idea keep a spare in your wallet or with a buddy It's also a good idea to keep your keychain in check as it travels around.
If you're seeking a way to save money on a replacement car key, you might consider purchasing an aftermarket key online. It is common to find these keys for about 75 percent less than what dealers would charge. They will still need to be cut and programmed for your specific vehicle, so make sure you check around for the best prices in your area.
How Long Will It Take?
If you're the type who is prone to losing or forgetting your keys it's time to purchase a spare. You can avoid the hassle of paying for a locksmith to come out or having your vehicle towed to the dealer when you need a new key. It can take anywhere from several minutes to several hours to make an replacement key.
It could cost up to $200 to get a replacement key if you lose the sole key. 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 new key. You will also be charged for labor charges. It's better to invest the money on a spare car key today at your own time, and on your terms instead of having the expense of replacing it when you're in the need of it.
get keys cut for cars can be made quickly by a locksmith, or at the hardware store. They have a slightly larger shank, and fewer grooves than laser-cut key. If you're looking to replace the key fob, it will take longer as they have to be programmed into the car's computer. In the majority of cases an auto locksmith with a good reputation is able to do this. It's best to contact them prior to the time to inquire about their fees and how long they will need to complete the job.
At all Mister Minit locations we have the tools and know-how to duplicate your existing car keys or fobs. Bring the key you would like to duplicate and the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to assist us in determining the type of transponder chip is inside. The year the model, model and make will also help us know what kind of key fob you need.
If you are worried about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer who manufactures the car you drive. If you need a key fob replacement it will take a bit longer since the dealer will have to program it using the computer in your car. 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 manual of your owner to learn how this is done since it will differ between different manufacturers.
Are there any restrictions on the production of a key Without the Original?
If you own an older vehicle it is possible to purchase an ordinary metal key by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, even at an hardware store. This is because older cars don't have special electronic components, such as chips. However, modern cars could have transponder keys that require a special laser key-cutting machine known as a sidewinder to make copies of the key. Additionally, these keys could have programmed chips that prevent your vehicle from being started without the original key being in close proximity to the 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 transport your car to the dealer in order to program the key.
Calling a locksmith is a much more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a copy of your car key for about half the price of a dealership. This is something you must do before you lose your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you cannot find them.
Can I get a key made at AutoZone?
Modern cars are equipped with modern security systems, but we still rely on keys to start and unlock them. If you lose your key, getting a new one is not as easy as a trip to the self service kiosk at 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.
Fortunately, a number of AutoZone locations have the tools and expertise to provide these services. If you have a key fob or even a traditional key, a store associate can assist you in programming it to your car onsite.
A machine is used to copy contours of an original car key. A blank key is put on one side of a duplication machine, while an existing key is placed on the other side. Both are aligned with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the blank key and working key back and forth and cuts out the desired shape. The result is an entirely new key that is the exact dimensions of the original.
The process of making an extra key for your car can be more complex. Your vehicle's year and make, as well as the model will determine the type of key you need. The key will be cut by a professional to match your car. A lot of dealerships have the equipment however, you can find a locksmith who will do this work for less. Make sure to verify whether the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You can often get keys replacement online for cheaper prices than going to a dealership to have them cut and programmed. You can find them by searching "(your year and make)" on websites specifically designed for this purpose.
If you have a more complex key or key fob, you will likely have to visit the locksmith or dealer to have 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 get a spare key made today, so that you can utilize it in case of an emergency.