Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting keys for cars requires more than just bent metal. It's a technique that offers security and ease of mind for car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting technique for your car's brand and model. The key-cutting process takes only a few minutes and is much less costly than a replacement car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the simplest form of car key and dates back to the beginning of automobile locks. They are made up of grooves and ridges carved into them that line up with the pin settings in the lock that allows you to unlock it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, however locksmiths with the right tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and work inside your vehicle.
A professional locksmith is also able to make keys that are laser-cut. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys due to the fact that they have grooves on both sides. This makes it difficult to duplicate the key and, if someone uses a grinder to try to copy it they'll likely end up leaving some metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an extra layer of security. These keys have a chip inside the head of the key that communicates with your car to inform it that it is authentic. If the chip in your car's key is not compatible, your car will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the newest evolution in car keys. They're a mix of the mechanical key and a wireless remote control. This allows you to unlock and start your vehicle with the key, and allows you to do this from a distance. A mobile auto locksmith can make smart keys for your car in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Many people think they can get a replacement for a damaged or lost 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 more secure if you let the making of the key to a professional.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys may be more expensive than standard blanks however they add an additional security layer to your vehicle. They are carved from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be placed in the lock on either side, and work. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
You can distinguish a key made of lasers from traditional bladed keys by the thicker shank that has smaller grooves that have been carved. This makes it harder for thieves to steal your car because the key is more difficult to turn. The keys are less likely to get caught in the lock, as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert a key cut with lasers into your lock, it transmits a signal to the car's receiver that matches the unique pattern. This informs the car that it's the correct key, and it can be used to start. If a thief is able to get their hands on an unauthorised key, the vehicle transmitter will not register it. It will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s, and are currently used in a wide range of luxury vehicles. They cost more to make than regular keys and require specialized equipment, but they provide an extra layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace it quickly and easily at a reasonable price if you lose it.
Depending on the model of your car, you may need to have a transponder chip programmed into the ignition to get it to work. This isn't something that you can do by yourself and most dealerships will charge you an expense of a few hundred dollars to perform the program for you. A reputable locksmith can programme your transponder, but they might not have the same experience than your local dealer.
Transponder chips are incorporated into the keys of a majority of modern cars to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered with your ignition system, allowing it to verify the keys before making the motor start. Even if a thief succeeds in stealing the key and replicate it but isn't able to use it to start your car because the engine will refuse to start when it doesn't have the correct code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are found in the majority of cars manufactured within the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters that can stop your car from starting without the proper key in place. This was a major innovation in the fight against auto theft because thieves had discovered a variety of ways to start cars by brute force (pushing the ignition switch using a flat screwdriver) and hot-wiring (bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was able to solve all of this because it would only allow the car to be turned on for a short period of time while also registering that there was a valid key in the ignition.
car key cutting cost will look much like a standard metal key with a transparent top. The plastic top houses the actual transponder, which will transmit a signal to your car when the key is close to. The signal is comprised of an electronic serial number that matches the original transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible then you'll be in a position to operate your vehicle. This is among the most effective forms of anti-theft technology manufacturers of cars have implemented as 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 types of transponder key that are available. Certain keys come with an embedded transponder in the head. Some have a remote fob that contains the key transponder. Key fobs typically come with buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your car and set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help you get you a new transponder to your vehicle and can even program it if you need to. The process is typically simple and involves only just a few steps. First, the new key has to be cut with an ordinary metal key cutter, which can usually be done at any auto retailer. The blank transponder keys will then have to be programmed by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is typically extremely quick and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern vehicles have a remote keyless system that requires a fob. The fob transmits an alert from your vehicle to unlock the doors, or start the motor. If it is equipped, it will also open the boot.
It's important to note that a car key fob isn't like the typical metal key that you may have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that must be properly programmed to work with your specific vehicle. This is why you shouldn't attempt cutting your own fob. It's always best to bring your key fob to an expert to cut and program it.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some have a key that folds inside it, similar to a switchblade. This lets the fob become smaller and compact when not being used. There are fobs without the foldable feature, that look like normal-sized keys.
If you lost your key fob, it could be a major hassle to find a replacement. It may require special tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers typically only offer the key fob that is compatible with your model. This is because the dealer has the technological experience to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with the security system of your vehicle.
Fortunately the process of obtaining the new key fob you want is relatively simple when you have the right details. For starters, you need to know the year, make and model of your car. Also, you should have a working spare key with you to take along.
Gather Necessary Tools: Before trying to program your key fob, make sure you read the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that you have all the required tools and equipment. You'll need to enter a specific mode, which may require pressing certain buttons or turning off the ignition a certain number times or the combination of. Some manufacturers will even signal the switch to programming mode by sound or flashing light.
Once you've collected the necessary materials, you can bring your key fob into your closest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We can help you save time and money by cutting your key fobs for an affordable cost than the dealership. Most importantly, we stay open longer than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to cut your key fob and programmed.