15 Shocking Facts About Get Car Key Cut
Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional car key cutting service ensures the smoothest start and helps avoid potential issues. They use advanced machines to ensure precision and offer warranties for their services.
For modern vehicles, a transponder chip is required on the key fob. These are highly sophisticated electronic devices that need to by programmed by a dealer or auto locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thought you might have is to visit your dealer if you've lost your key or if your key fob is damaged. In the end, the dealership is the official dealer for your car and they should be able to provide you with an alternative key. You may be surprised by the cost these services could be. There are other ways to save money on important replacements.
While car dealers offer an extensive selection of car keys and key fobs, they typically charge more than other outlets. In addition, they might not be able to make the exact type of key cutting business you require. For instance, some modern automobiles require a laser cut key that requires specific equipment to create duplicates, program, and create each one. Most locksmiths do not offer this service and have to outsource the process.
A better alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that provides key-making services. Most hardware stores carry many blanks for different kinds of car keys, which means they can usually accommodate most needs. These stores are usually cheaper than dealerships.
Home improvement stores have an array of blank car keys and keys, but they also have the expertise and tools to create keys and replacement fobs for keys. They can make laser-cut metal keys that are harder to duplicate than traditional metal keys. They can also reprogram your fobs if needed.
Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA can also make replacement car keys. They have the tools to create standard house keys, transponder keys, and key fobs. However, not all locations can make these keys, so you'll have to call ahead before visiting a specific location.
Some big-box stores like Rite Aid, offer key-making services. You can also get keys for your car or a key cutter fob key made for less than 15 dollars at the majority of stores! These stores have a huge range of blanks and even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible in the event that the original key has an embedded microchip that can be programmed to the car's computer system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys, the best thing to do is to call an emergency locksmith. They will quickly cut and replace your keys. In many places, automotive locksmiths offer 24/7 service to help you out in a bind. They can cut any type of key, including transponder keys and regular keys. They also handle VAT systems on newer automobiles.
The majority of AutoZone stores can replace your car keys. The process is simple: A representative selects the right key blank based upon your year, make, and model. A machine then trace the original contours on the current key. This ensures that the replacement key is perfectly. If your key is equipped with an embedded computer chip inside the fob, it will need to be programmed.
Some auto locksmiths can reprogram your keys for a lower cost than a dealership. They can also offer an expedited turnaround time, which is great for those in need of assistance in a hurry. However, a locksmith outside might not be able to operate on the most sophisticated automobiles, like ones with smart keys.
The average car key costs about $10 to cut at Walmart and is therefore an affordable alternative if you just need a traditional key duplicated. Be aware that keys made by machines are less likely than hand-crafted ones to last and will weather over time. It is best to employ an emergency key cutting locksmith to ensure that your spare keys last many years.
Certain cars today have a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. These are the most popular and practical keys, however they are also the most difficult to replace if you don't have the original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart-key but you must bring evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title or purchase documentation. You may also have to pay for a tow truck to transport your car back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Online key-by VIN suppliers are a convenient alternative for those who are unable to get to a locksmith or dealership. These companies create a replacement car key that is a factory original with the VIN number. They cost less than dealers or locksmiths but you'll require an automotive technician in order to connect the key.
Most cars built from 1990 onwards have a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle for it to function. It is crucial to use the car's key code instead of the VIN when ordering an online key through a key-by-VIN service. If you use the VIN to order keys, it's likely that your key won't work if the door lock or ignition have ever been changed.
Be aware that although key-by-VIN providers online can cut keys, they are not able to deliver a programed key for your car. You'll still require an auto technician to accomplish this task, so make sure to factor this additional cost into your budget when choosing this option.
Dealers, locksmiths and online key-by-VIN suppliers are the clear winners when it comes to precision. They all cut their keys by code, which means you get the genuine OEM cut key. Contrary to this, big box stores only cut their keys with an automated machine, which can become less accurate over time and may result in a key that doesn't work properly.
A key purchased online is more expensive than those purchased from a reputable dealer or locksmith. Most online resellers source their products from outside the country and employ poor quality components and construction methods. Furthermore, you will not receive any kind of warranty or assistance if something goes wrong with the key.
It is vital to keep a supply on hand of transponders, keys, blank keys and remotes for every model of vehicle you work with. You can save time and money by using OEM websites of the manufacturers to locate keys for cars that are based on VIN or model and make.
Big Box Stores
Online shopping is so convenient that you may not even wish to leave your house. However, not all shopping experiences are the same. Some things, like cutting your car keys is best done in person instead of using with a mouse. A lot of big box stores have the tools and expertise to cut your key. Although these stores might not be as reliable as a locksmith or an online key-by-VIN vendor, they have the advantage of being easy and affordable.
An auto parts store is the most frequent place to have your key cut. It is a simple and quick process if you have a standard, un-chipped key. These stores have key cutting car key machines that can copy the contours from your current key in a matter of minutes.
Another common option is at an upscale chain store for hardware such as Ace Hardware. These chains also have key cutting machines, and they are able to copy all kinds of keys. However, if you own a modern key that is part of a key fob or is equipped with a chip they will not be able to assist.
Some of the more specialized stores, like Menards in Midwest and Home Depot across the country are able to make duplicates of keys with chips. You should call your local store to inquire whether they can create keys like this before you go.
If you have a high-security key, you'll want to visit your local AutoZone location. AutoZone stores have the tools, know-how, and technology to duplicate all kinds of high-security keys including those that are incorporated into key fobs. A staff member will select the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture the model, and make a key cutting machine to copy the original contours of your current key. This process will take longer than a standard key, but will ensure that your key is safe in the event it is lost or stolen.
