Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It's an art form that guarantees security and ease of mind for car owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the appropriate key cutting procedure for your car's brand and model. The process of cutting keys takes just about a minute and is cheaper than buying new car keys at the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to early automotive locks and are the simplest kind of car key. They have a pattern that matches the pins of the lock to open it. Mechanical keys can be copied at most hardware stores, but a professional locksmith with the right tools will generally have better success making copies that are more durable and will work with your vehicle.
A professional locksmith will also be capable of making laser-cut keys. These are more secure than traditional mechanical key because they feature grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it harder to make copies or if someone tries to make use of a grinder to the key, they'll likely leave behind a large amount of metal scraps that won't fit into 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 confirm that it is genuine. If the chip in the key is not connected to your car, it will not start and remain in a standstill. These keys are more expensive than a mechanical one and require expert programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the newest evolution in car keys. These are a combination between keys that are mechanical and wireless remote control. This lets you unlock and start your vehicle with the key, and allows you to do this from an extended distance. A mobile auto locksmith can make smart keys for your vehicle within a matter of minutes, using the latest technology.
Many people believe that they can get an alternative for their lost or damaged mechanical key at a hardware store but this is not a safe practice. Most chains don't have the proper equipment or highly skilled professionals to be able to create a quality key that will work well in your vehicle. It is safer to hand over the making of your key to a professional and you'll likely save money in the end by choosing this option.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to produce than standard key blanks but provide an additional layer of security for your car. They are cut from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be put into the lock from either side and still work. They feature a distinct pattern that is more difficult to duplicate.
It is possible to tell a laser-cut key apart from traditional bladed keys by the larger shank, which has fewer carved grooves. This makes the key more difficult to turn than a standard key and makes it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your car without a lot of time and effort. These keys are also less likely to get stuck in the lock because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert the laser-cut key inside your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the receiver of your car. This informs the car that it's the correct key, and it can be used to start. If a burglar manages to get their hands onto an unauthorized key, the vehicle's transmitter will not be able to recognize it. It will be unable to start.
Laser-cut keys were introduced in the 1990s and are now used in many luxury cars. They cost more to make than regular keys and require special equipment, but they add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose one, an experienced locksmith will be able to replace it quickly and easily for reasonable cost.
Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to have a transponder chip programmed into the key to get it working. This isn't something that you can do on your own and the majority of car dealerships will charge an arm and a leg to complete the task for you. A reliable locksmith will be able to program your transponder for you however they might not have the same amount of experience as your local dealer.
Transponder chips are included in the keys of most newer cars to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered with your car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the keys before beginning the engine. Even if a burglar succeeds in stealing the key and duplicate it but isn't in a position to start your car because the engine won't start if it doesn't have the proper code.
Transponder Keys
Nearly every car manufactured in the past 20 years or that's why it has a transponder chip in it. These are radio transmitters that prevent your car from being started without the right keys. 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 using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system entirely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this, as it only allowed the car to turn on for a brief period of time. It also verified that there was a key in place.
A regular transponder will look like a metal key with the top made of plastic. The plastic top is home to the actual transponder that will send a signal to your car when the key is close to. This signal has an electronic serial number that matches the transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible the car's transponder, it will allow you to operate it. This is the most effective anti-theft system that an automaker can put in place as it makes car theft impossible for anyone with an authentic key.
Depending on the model, there are several different kinds of transponder keys that can be used. Some are equipped with the traditional transponder chip which is located inside the head of the key. Others have a remote key fob that has the transponder for the key. Key fobs typically include buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle, set the alarm, and many other functions.
A locksmith can help you get a new transponder key for your vehicle and even program it for you, should you require it. This procedure is usually straightforward and requires only a few simple steps. The first step is that the new key will need to be cut using an ordinary metal key cutter, which can usually be done in any automotive store. key cuts for cars will then have to be programmed by a professional locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is typically extremely quick and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars use the remote keyless entry system that requires a fob. The key fob sends the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors or start the motor. If equipped, it can also open the boot.
Keep in mind that the car fob is different from the conventional keys that you might have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that has to be programmed correctly to work with your specific vehicle. It is not recommended to cut your key fob yourself. It is recommended to leave the cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs tend to be small and rectangular. Some feature a key that folds inside it, much like the switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be hidden away when not being used. You can also find fobs that look more like the regular key, but without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob, it can be a real hassle to find an alternative. It could require specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. Often, dealers can only provide a fob that works with your specific model. The dealer has the technical expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's security system.
Fortunately the process of obtaining the new key fob you want is fairly easy if you have the correct information. For starters, you need to know the year, model and year of your vehicle. Also, you must have a working spare key with you to take along.
Gather Necessary Tools: Before attempting 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 will need to enter a specific mode that may require turning the ignition off and on a certain number of times, pressing certain buttons or the combination of both. Some manufacturers might even employ a flashing light or sound to signal the entry into programming mode.
You can take your key fob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to get it cut and programmed. We can assist you in saving time and money by cutting your key fobs for the lower cost than the dealership. We are also open longer than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to cut your key fob and programmed.