Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting keys for cars involves more than simply bent metal. It's a skill that provides security and ease of mind for car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the proper key cutting technique for your particular model and make. The key cutting process takes only a few minutes and is much less expensive than purchasing new car keys at the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car keys. They have a pattern of ridges and grooves cut into them that align with the pin settings in a specific lock to unlock it. The majority of hardware stores can duplicate mechanical keys, however a locksmith with the proper tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and work inside your car.
A professional locksmith will also be capable of making laser-cut keys. They are more secure than traditional mechanical key because they feature grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it more difficult to duplicate the key and if someone uses a grinder to attempt to copy it, they'll likely leave the metal pieces that won't fit in the lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an extra layer of security. These keys have a small chip in their head that communicates to your car to ensure it's genuine keys. If the chip in the car's key isn't properly matched, the vehicle will not start. These keys are more costly than mechanical keys and require professional programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the most recent evolution in car keys. They're a mix of the mechanical key and a wireless remote control. This lets you unlock and start your car by using the key. It also lets you do it from a distance. A mobile auto locksmith can make smart keys for your car in minutes using the latest technology.
Many people may think that they can find a replacement for their lost or damaged mechanical key at the hardware store however this isn't a good idea. Most chains do not have the right equipment or highly skilled professionals to be able to create a quality key that works in your vehicle. You'll save money as well as be safer if you leave the making of the key to a professional.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys are more expensive to make than standard key blanks, but provide an additional layer of security for your vehicle. Lasers are used to carve keys from the middle, permitting them to be put into the lock at either side and still function. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
You can tell a laser-cut key apart from bladed keys with traditional design by the thicker shank that has less grooves carved. This means the key is more difficult to turn than a standard key and makes it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. Keys with this design are less likely to be caught in the lock, because they are more precise cutting.
When you insert a key cut with lasers into your lock, it sends a signal to your car's receiver that matches its unique pattern. This lets the car know that it is the right key, and it can be started. If a burglar does manage to steal an unauthorised copy of your key, the vehicle's transmitter will not recognize it and refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys first came out in the 1990s and are used in many luxury cars. They are more expensive and require specialized equipment to make keys, but they do provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace yours quickly and efficiently at a reasonable cost should you lose it.
Depending on your car depending on the model, you might need to have a transponder chip programmed into the ignition to get it to work. You can't do this yourself, and dealers charge a lot to do it. A reputable locksmith will be able to program your transponder on your behalf even though they may not have the same amount of experience as your local dealer.
The majority of newer vehicles come with laser-cut keys that feature transponder chips, which provide an extra layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system and permit it to confirm that the key is genuine before you start the engine. Even if someone succeeds in stealing the key and copy it however, they will not be able to use it to start your car as the engine will refuse to start when it doesn't have the proper code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips can be found in nearly all vehicles built within the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters that can stop your car from starting if you don't have the proper key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft since thieves had devised a variety of ways to start cars using brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch with flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was able to solve all of that as it would only allow the car to start for a short period of time, but also verify that there was a valid key in the ignition.
A normal transponder will appear like a metal key with a top made of plastic. The plastic top houses the actual transponder, which will send a message to your car whenever the key is within close proximity. car key cutting and programming contains an electronic serial number that is identical to the transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible the car's transponder, it will allow you to operate it. This is among the best forms of anti-theft technology that a car manufacturer has implemented since it has made theft of cars nearly impossible for anyone who doesn't possess a valid key.
Depending on the model, there are several different kinds of transponder keys that are available. Some have a traditional transponder chip that is located in the head of the key. Some include an accessory fob that houses the key transponder. Key fobs usually have buttons on them that can lock/unlock your vehicle, set the alarm, and other functions.
A locksmith can assist you acquire a new transponder key for your car, and can program it for you, if needed. This process is usually fairly simple and involves several steps. The new key has to be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any auto shop. Then, the blank transponder keys will need to be programmed for your particular vehicle by an experienced auto locksmith. The process of programming typically takes only 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern vehicles have an electronic remote keyless system that requires a fob. The fob sends a signal to your vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. It can also open the trunk, if it is equipped.
Keep in mind that a car fob is different from the conventional keys that you might have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that must be correctly programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. This is why you shouldn't attempt to cut your own fob. It is always recommended to bring your fob to an expert for cutting and programming.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some feature keys that fold inside it, much like a switchblade. This reduces the size of the fob and allows it to be tucked away when not being used. There are also fobs that look more like a regular key, without the foldable key.
If you lost your key fob, it could be a major hassle to find a replacement. It may require specialized tools or a trip to a dealership. Usually, the dealer will only offer a fob compatible with your specific model. The dealer has the technical expertise to ensure that a replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's safety system.
Fortunately, the process of getting an entirely new key fob is relatively simple when you have the right details. For starters, you need to know the year, model and year of your vehicle. Also, you should have a working spare key with you to take along.
Make sure you have the required equipment Before you attempt to program your keyfob, go through the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have the right tools and equipment. You'll be required to enter a particular mode, which may require pressing certain buttons or turning off the ignition a certain number times or a combination. Some manufacturers may even signal the switch to programming mode with a sound or flashing lights.
Once you've collected the necessary items, you can take your key fob to 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 later than the dealership and you won't have to rush to get your keyfob programmed and cut.