Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal. It's a technique that offers security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the appropriate key cutting method for your car's brand and model. The process of cutting keys is a matter of minutes and is cheaper than a replacement car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car keys. These keys have a pattern that matches the pins of the lock to open it. The majority of hardware stores can duplicate mechanical keys, but locksmiths who have the right tools will be able to create copies that are more durable and can be used inside your car.
A professional locksmith is also capable of making laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to duplicate the key, and if someone uses a grinder to attempt to do so they'll likely leave the metal pieces that will not fit in the lock.
In the 1990s, transponder keys were developed to add another layer of security. These keys contain a chip inside the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to inform it that it is genuine. If the chip in your key isn't matched to your car it will not be able to start and will remain immobilised. Keys with this type of chip are more expensive than a mechanical key and require expert programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the latest evolution in car keys. They're a mix of keys that are mechanical and wireless remote control. You can open and start your vehicle with this key and do so by remote. A mobile auto locksmith can create smart keys for your vehicle within a matter of minutes, using the latest technology.
Many people believe that they can get a replacement for a damaged or lost mechanical key at the hardware store however this isn't a safe practice. Most hardware stores do not have the equipment or highly-trained professionals to create an effective key that will work in your vehicle. You will save money and be more secure if you let the creation of the key to professionals.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to make than standard key blanks but provide an additional layer of security for your car. They are carved from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be inserted into the lock on either side, and work. They have a unique pattern and are more difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has less grooves will allow you to discern a laser-cut key from a bladed traditional key. This makes it difficult for thieves to steal your car as the key is harder to turn. Keys with this design are less likely to be caught in the lock, as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut key in your lock, a unique signal is sent to the car's receiver. This signals the car that it is the right key, and that it is able to be started. If a thief gets their hands on a stolen key, the vehicle's transmitter will not recognize it. It will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys have been used in luxury cars since the 1990s. They are more expensive and require special equipment to create them, but they offer an extra layer security for your vehicle. If you lose yours, an experienced locksmith should be able to replace it quickly and at reasonable cost.
You may need to have the transponder chip programmed into your key based on the vehicle you own. This isn't something you can do by yourself and the majority of car dealers will charge an arm and a leg to perform the program for you. A good locksmith can program your transponder, but they might not have the same experience as your local dealer.
Most newer cars come with keys laser-cut that have transponder chips to add an extra layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system, allowing it to check that the key is authentic before allowing the engine to start. Even if the person who stole it is capable of stealing and copying the key, they won't be able to use it to start the car as the engine will not start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are found in nearly all vehicles built in the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters that prevent your car from being started without the correct keys. This was a significant advancement in the fight against auto theft as thieves had discovered a variety of ways to start cars by brute force (pushing the ignition switch with the flat screwdriver) and hot-wiring (bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip solved all of this because it only allowed the car to start for a short time, but also verify that there was a valid key in the ignition.
A regular transponder will look like a key made of steel with a top made of plastic. This plastic top houses the transponder, which will send an alert to your car when the key is near enough. This signal contains the digital serial number that matches the original transponder that is inside your car. If the signals are compatible then you'll be capable of operating your car. This is among the best forms of anti-theft technologies that a car manufacturer has implemented as it has made car theft nearly impossible for anyone who doesn't possess a valid key.
There are a few different types of transponder keys which can be used in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some of them have a traditional transponder chip that is located inside the head of the key. Some also have a remote fob which houses the transponder of the key. Key fobs typically come with buttons that allow you to lock/unlock the car or set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can assist you get a new transponder key for your car, and can program it for you, should you require it. This process is usually simple and only involves a few simple steps. The new key needs to be cut using a key cutter. This can be accomplished at any auto shop. Then, the transponder key must be programmed for your particular vehicle by an experienced auto locksmith. The programming process is usually fast and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars use the remote keyless entry system that requires fob. The fob's key sends a signal to your vehicle to unlock doors or start the engine. It can also open the trunk, if equipped.
It's important to remember that a car key fob is not like the traditional metal key you've got on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that has to be programmed correctly to fit your specific vehicle. This is why you shouldn't attempt to cut your fob yourself. It is always recommended to bring your fob to a professional for cutting and programming.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some have keys that folds inside, similar to the switchblade. auto key cutting makes the fob smaller and allows it to be hidden away when not in use. There are fobs that don't have the foldable feature, that look like a regular-sized key.
automotive key cutting can be difficult to replace your key fob when you lose it. It may require special tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers can often only provide the key fob that is compatible with your car. The dealer has the technical expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's safety system.
The process of getting the replacement key fob you need can be quite simple if have the right information. First, you have to know the year, model and year of your vehicle. Also, you must have a spare key to bring along.
Gather Necessary Tools: Before attempting to program your key fob, read the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure that you have all the required tools and equipment. You will be required to enter a specific mode, which could involve pressing certain buttons, turning the ignition on/off at a specific number of times or a combination. Some manufacturers might even employ an illuminated light or sound to signal the switch to programming mode.
After you've gathered all the necessary items, you can take your key fob into your nearest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We'll save you time and money because we cut your key fobs at a lower price than the dealership. We are open earlier than the dealer so you don't have to rush to get your keyfob programed and cut.