“Ask Me Anything”: Ten Responses To Your Questions About Getting A New Car Key Cut

Getting a New Car Key Cut A locksmith for your vehicle can save you money when as compared to dealers. They can create replacement keys for all kinds of vehicles and models, including fobs which require programming. Laser-cut keys have thicker shanks with less grooves. They also have transponder chips that need to be programmed into your car. This procedure can be complex and time-consuming, but it's cheaper than visiting a dealer. What Kind of Keys Do I Need? When replacing keys for your car the type of key you have is a major aspect. If your car is old and has a traditional key, you can obtain the replacement from many hardware or locksmith stores. Keys of this kind have simple, precise ridges that are cut into one side and are easy to duplicate. The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys, which have a built-in transponder chip that transmits 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. It's more expensive to replace a smart lock if you lose it because they require a computer chip. This is why it's best to keep an extra car key on hand and leave another with a friend or family member in case you ever do lose the original. Based on the make and model of your vehicle It may or might not be possible to replace the missing smart key with a second-hand 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 an ID photo to purchase a new key for you, and they will need to program it into the car's system. This process can take up to an hour. It's much more expensive than an ordinary copy of the key. A key fob laser-cut will cost between $50 and $100. While you're waiting for your new key to be made, try not to worry too much about losing it. It's a good idea make sure you have a spare in your pocket or with a buddy It's also a good idea to keep your keychain in check as it travels around. If you're looking for a way to save money on a new car key, you might consider purchasing an aftermarket key on the internet. These keys are usually priced at about 75% less than the price dealers cost. You'll still need to cut them and program them to your vehicle. Find out the best price in your area. How Much Time Will It Take? If you're the type who is susceptible to losing or forgetting your keys, it might be time to purchase an extra. A spare key will save you the hassle of having to pay for a locksmith or take your vehicle to the dealership when you're locked out and need a replacement key. It can take anywhere from a few minutes and a few hours to make a replacement key. If you lose your keys, it can cost up to $200. You'll need to pay for having your car tow into a dealership which will purchase and program the replacement key. You'll also have to pay for any labor charges that come with the procedure. A spare key now is more affordable than paying for the replacement later. A hardware or locksmith can make traditional car keys in a short time. They usually have a slightly thicker shank and have fewer grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. However, if you need the replacement of a key fob, it's likely to take a bit longer as they must be programmed with the computer in your vehicle. A trustworthy auto locksmith or dealer can do this in most cases, but it's better to contact them to find out what their rates are and the time it will take for them to complete the job. Most Mister Minit locations have the expertise and equipment to duplicate your current car fob or key. You'll be required to bring the original key you want duplicated as well as the year, make and MODEL of your car to help us determine what kind of transponder chip the key has. The year the model, model and make will also allow us to determine what kind of key fob you'll need. Another option to consider if you're concerned about losing your original is to go to the dealer that makes the vehicle you drive. If you need the replacement of your key fob, this will take a little longer as 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 title or registration documents to complete this. You can also buy a spare third car key and reprogram it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for your car to learn how to do this, since it varies from one manufacturer to the next. Are There Any Limitations on Getting a Key Made without the Original? If you own an older vehicle you could get 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 like chips. Modern cars may have transponder keys which require a laser-cutting machine, also known as sidewinder to duplicate the key. Additionally, these keys may contain programmed chips that keep your vehicle from starting without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition. If your car is equipped with one of these advanced keys, it is important to be aware that you might require an authorized dealer to have an alternate key made, without the original. This can be expensive particularly if you need to transport your car to the dealer to program the key. A locksmith's call is a more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a duplicate of your car keys for about half the price of the dealership. This is something you should do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you are unable to locate them. Can I Get a Key Made at AutoZone? Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they rely on keys to open the car and allow it to start. If you lose your key and need to replace it, it isn't as simple as a trip to the self-service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Modern car keys have to be programmed to security purposes and come with a transponder chip that is unique to each vehicle. Many AutoZone stores have the expertise 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 assist you to program it to your vehicle on the spot. The fundamental process of cutting a car keys involves using a machine to duplicate the contours of a working original key. A blank key is positioned on one side of the duplication machine, and an existing key is placed on the other side. Both are held in alignment by a specific tool. key cutting price G28CarKeys moves the blank key back and forward, cutting out the desired shape. The new key will have the dimensions of the previous one. The process of creating a spare key for your car could be more complex. The year and make will determine the type of key you need. This is cut by a professional to fit the vehicle. Many dealerships have the necessary equipment, but you can also find a locksmith to perform this task for less. Be sure to check if the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. You can usually find replacement keys online for less than going to a dealership to have them cut and programmed. You can find them on sites that are specifically designed for this use, as well as by searching for “(your year, make, and model).” If you own a more complicated key or key fob, you'll need go to the dealer or a locksmith to have it replaced. You can usually get a key cut by giving the VIN and proof of ownership, but you'll have to pay for programming. The best method to avoid these expenses is to get a spare key made in the near future, so that you can utilize it in case of an emergency.