Getting a New Car Key Cut

An auto locksmith can save you money if you compare it to a dealer. They can create replacement keys for all car models and key types, including fobs that require programming.

Laser cut keys have thicker shanks with less carved-out grooves. They also include transponder chips that must be programmed into your vehicle. This process can be more complex and time-consuming, however it is still cheaper than visiting an auto dealer.

What kind of keys do I Really Need?

The type of keys you own is essential when it comes to replacing keys to your car that are lost. If your car is older and uses a traditional key, you can get a replacement at many hardware or locksmith 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 to stop unauthorized users from opening your car or opening the doors. It's more costly to replace a smart key if you lose it since they need a computer chip. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your possession and leave one with a family member or acquaintance in the event that you lose the original.

Based on the make and model of your car it might or may not be possible to replace a missing smart key with a second-hand version. If your car doesn't have the technology, you'll have to go to a dealer or talk to locksmith. They will require proof of ownership and an ID picture to buy an additional key for you, and then they'll have to program it into your car's system.

The process could take as long as an 24 hour key cutting and it's important to remember that it's more expensive than simply having a standard key copied. A key fob laser-cut will cost between $50-$100.

As you wait for your new key to be made, try not to stress out too much about losing it. You should always have an extra key in your purse, or with a trusted companion. Keep an eye on the keychain when it moves.

Think about purchasing an aftermarket key online if you want to save money. You can often get a car key cut near me these keys for 75 percent less than the price dealers would charge. They'll still need to be cut and programmed for your specific vehicle be sure to look around for the most affordable prices in your region.

How Long Will It Take?

If you're the kind of person who has trouble remembering where they put their keys or is prone to misplacing them, it may be the right time to purchase an extra car key. A spare key can help you avoid the burden of paying for a locksmith or tow to the dealership when you are locked out and require a replacement key. It can take anywhere from several minutes to several hours to make an alternative key.

It could cost you upwards of $200 to purchase a replacement key if you lose your only one. You'll have to pay to have your vehicle towed into a dealership which will then order and program the new key. Additionally, you'll have to pay for any labor charges that come with the procedure. Spending money on a spare key now is better than having to pay for the replacement later.

Traditional car keys can be made quickly by a locksmith or at an hardware store. They usually have slightly larger shanks and less carved out grooves than laser-cut keys. If you need to replace the key fob, it will take longer since they have 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 better to contact them first to determine what their rates are and the time it will take them to complete the work.

At most Mister Minit locations we have the tools and experience to duplicate your car keys or fobs. Bring the key you want to duplicate along with the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to aid us in determining the type of transponder chip is inside. The year, model and the make will also assist us in determining what type of key fobs you require.

If you're concerned about losing your original, you can also go to the dealer that makes the car model you use. The dealership will need to program the key fob to your car's computers in case you need an replacement. They'll need evidence of ownership, such as your title or registration documents for this. You could also get a third car key to use as a spare, and reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to read your owner's manual to learn how this is done since it will differ between different manufacturers.

Are there any restrictions on getting a key made without the original?

If you have an older car it is possible to purchase a standard key made of metal by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, even at the hardware store. This is because older cars don't have specialized electronic components such as chips. The latest cars could use transponder keys which require a laser-cutting car key machine, also known as a sidewinder in order to duplicate the key. Also, these newer keys may contain programmed chips that keep your vehicle from starting without the original key in close proximity to the ignition.

If your car is equipped with one of these advanced keys, it's important to be aware that you may have to visit a dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be costly especially if you need to transport your car to the dealer to program the key.

A cheaper option is to get locksmiths, who will typically cut and program an exact duplicate of your keys for less than half the price of an auto dealer. This is something you must do before you lose your keys. It will save you money in the future if you are unable to locate the keys.

Can I get a key made at AutoZone?

Modern cars come with the latest security features, however, they still rely on keys to open and start them. It's not as simple as a trip to the self-service kiosk at the mall and getting an alternative key. Instead, modern keys for cars have to be programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle and include a transponder chip that is unique to your vehicle.

Many AutoZone stores have the experience and equipment to provide these services. If you have your key fob (or perhaps a standard key) with you, a staff member can cut it and help program it to your vehicle on the spot.

A machine is used to copy contours of a working original car key. A blank key is placed on one side of the duplication machine, and an existing key is on the other side. Both are aligned with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working and blank key in a circular motion cutting out the desired shape. The result is an original key that matches the exact dimensions of the original.

When it comes to making a spare car key, however, things can get more complicated. The year the make, model, and year of your car will determine what kind of key you have, which will need to be cut by a professional locksmith to use in your vehicle. There are locksmiths who can cut the key for less than dealerships. Be sure to check whether the locksmith is an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually buy replacements online for less than going to the dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can find them on sites specifically designed for this purpose, as well as by searching for "(your year, make, and model)."

You'll need to take your key fob or a more complicated keys to a dealer or locksmith to be replaced. It is possible to have a key cut by giving the VIN and evidence of ownership, however you'll have to pay for programming. You can save the cost by getting an additional key made today.