Getting a New Car Key Cut
You can save money compared to the dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can make replacements keys for all vehicle types and models, including fobs that require programming.
Laser cut keys have longer shanks with less carved-out grooves. They also have built-in transponder chips that must be programmed to your vehicle. This process is more complicated and takes more time, however, it is still cheaper than going to a dealership.
What kind of keys do I need?
When it comes to replacing a lost car key the type of keys you have is a big factor. If your car is older and uses a traditional key, you can get the replacement from many locksmiths or hardware stores. These types of keys have simple, precise ridges cut into one side and are easy to duplicate.
Modern vehicles are equipped with electronic keys, which have a built-in transponder chip that sends a signal to the vehicle when it's put in the ignition. This system is designed so that unauthorized users cannot start your car or open doors. If you lose a key that is a smart key, it's more expensive to replace since they require a special computer chip to perform. This is why it's a good idea to keep an extra car key in your possession and leave another with a friend or family member in the event that you do lose the original.
Depending on the brand and model of your vehicle, it may or not be possible to replace a lost smart key with a second-hand version. If your vehicle does not come with this type of technology, you'll need to contact an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. They will need to have proof of ownership as well as an ID picture to buy an additional key for you, and then they'll have to program it into the car's system.
The process can take up to an hour. It's also more expensive than purchasing an ordinary copy of the key. Laser-cut keys can cost between $50 and $100.
While you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. You should always have a spare key in your pocket, or with a trusted friend. Also, keep your eye on the keychain whenever it moves.
If you're looking for a way to save money on a replacement car key, think about purchasing an aftermarket model online. You can usually find these keys for about 75 % less than what the dealer would charge. They will still need to be cut and programmable to your specific vehicle, so make sure you call around for the best prices in your area.
How Much Time Will It Take?
If you are the type who is prone to losing or forgetting your keys it's time to purchase a spare. A spare can save you the headache of paying for a locksmith or tow towards the dealership if you're locked out and require a replacement key. Depending on the type of key it could take anywhere from just a few minutes to couple of hours to create a new key.
If you lose your keys, it can cost up to $200. You have to pay to have your car tow by a dealer who will then order and program the new key. You will also be charged for labor costs. The cost of purchasing a spare key now is better than paying for a replacement later.
A hardware or locksmith can make traditional car keys quickly. They typically have slightly larger shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you have to replace the fob of your key it will take longer since they will need to be programmed into the vehicle's computer. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer will be able to do this in the majority of cases but it's best to make a call to find out what their charges are and the time it will take them to complete the work.
The majority of Mister Minit locations have the expertise and the equipment to duplicate your existing car fob or key. You'll need to bring the key you want duplicated as well as the year, make and MODEL of your vehicle to determine the kind of transponder chip your key has inside. The year model, make and year will also let us know the type of key fob you need.
If you're concerned about losing your original, you can also visit the dealer who manufactures the car brand you drive. If you require a key fob replacement it will take a bit longer because the dealership will need to program it using the computer in your car. They will need to have proof of ownership, like your registration or title papers to do this. You can also buy a spare third car key and then reprogram it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual of your car to see how to do this, since it varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Are there any restrictions to making a key without the original?
You can purchase a standard car key made of metal from an auto locksmith, or in some cases, even a hardware store when you own an older car. This is because older vehicles do not have special electronic components such as chips. However, newer cars may include transponder keys that need a special laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder to create copies of the key. The newer keys may also have a chip programmed to prevent your car from starting in the event that the original key is not in close proximity to ignition.
You'll need to visit an authorized dealer if your vehicle has an advanced key. A replacement key that does not match the original one will be made. This can be expensive especially if you need to transport your car to the dealer in order to program the key.
A much more affordable option is to contact locksmiths, who can typically cut and program a precise copy of your key at around half the cost of a dealership. It is a good idea to do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you can't locate keys.
Can I get a Key Made at AutoZone?
Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they still rely on keys to open the car and start it. If you lose your keys, getting a new one isn't as simple as a trip to the self-service kiosk at the mall and having it cut. Rather, modern keys for cars must be programmed to work with your vehicle's security system and must include a transponder chip that is unique to your vehicle.
Many AutoZone stores have the knowledge and equipment to offer these services. If you have a key fob, or even an old-fashioned key, a store associate can assist you in programming it to your car onsite.
The most basic method of cutting a car keys involves the use of a machine to replicate the shape of an key. An existing key is positioned on one side of the duplication machine and a blank key on the other side, and an instrument designed for this purpose holds them in alignment. The machine then moves the blank key and working key in a circular motion cutting out the desired shape. The new key will have the original dimensions.
The process of creating an extra key for your car could be more complicated. The year, make, and model of your car will determine what kind of key you have, which must be cut by a professional to use in your vehicle. There are locksmiths who can cut the key at a lower cost than dealerships. Be sure to check if the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You can usually find replacement keys online at cheaper prices than going to a dealership to have them cut and programmed. You can find them by searching "(your year and make)" on websites designed for this for this purpose.
cutting car keys near me 'll have to take your key fob, or more complex key to a dealer or locksmith to be replaced. You can get a key made by providing your VIN and proof ownership, however, the programming will cost you. You can avoid the cost by getting a spare key created now.