Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting car keys involves more than just cutting a piece of metal. It's a skill that offers security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the appropriate key cutting method for your make and model. The process of cutting keys is a matter of minutes and is cheaper than purchasing a new car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car keys. They are made with a pattern that matches the pin settings of a lock to open it. Mechanical keys are available for copying at most hardware stores, but an experienced locksmith with the right tools will typically be more successful in making copies that are more durable and will work in your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can also create laser-cut keys. They are more secure than a standard mechanical key due to the fact that they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it difficult to make copies and, if someone attempts to grind the key, they will likely leave behind a lot of metal scraps that will not fit in your lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were created to add another layer of security. They have a tiny chip in their head that transmits information to your car to ensure it's a genuine key. If the chip in the key of your car is not compatible, your vehicle will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the newest technology in car keys. These are a combination between a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your vehicle by using the key. It also allows you to do so from an extended distance. A professional auto locksmith on the move can create smart keys that can be replaced for your vehicle in a matter of minutes, using the most advanced technology.
Hardware stores are not the best option to purchase a new mechanical key to replace the one that has been damaged or lost. The majority of hardware stores don't have the necessary equipment or highly-trained professionals to create a key that works well in your car. It is safer to leave the creation of your key to a professional, and you'll likely save money in the long run by opting for this method.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys are more expensive than standard blanks but they offer an extra layer of security to your car. They are carved from the middle using a laser which allows them to be put into the lock on either side, and work. car key cut and programed have a unique pattern and are more difficult to duplicate.
The wider shank and smaller grooves can help you discern a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This means that the key is more difficult to turn than a standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your car without much time and effort. They are also less likely to become stuck in locks because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert the laser-cut keys in your lock, a unique signal is sent to the car's receiver. This signals the car that it's the right key, and it can be started. If a burglar gets their hands onto an unauthorized key, the vehicle's transmitter will not recognize it. It will be unable to start.
Laser-cut keys have been in use in luxury vehicles since the 1990s. They are more expensive to produce than standard keys and require special equipment, but they add an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose yours a professional locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and easily for an affordable price.
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 car dealerships will charge you an expense of a few hundred dollars to perform the program for you. A good locksmith will be able program your transponder, but they might not have the same experience than your local dealer.
Most newer cars come with laser-cut keys with transponder chips, which provide an extra layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system and permit it to check that the key is legitimate before starting the engine. Even if a burglar succeeds in stealing the key and copy it, they won't be in a position to start your car because the engine won't start if it doesn't have the proper code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are present in almost all cars built within the last 20 years. They are basically radio transmitters that stop your car from starting without the proper key in place. This was a significant 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 flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system entirely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this, because it only allowed the car to turn on for a brief period of time, and also confirmed that there was a key in place.
A regular transponder keys will look like a regular metal key with a transparent top. This plastic top houses the actual transponder which sends an alert to your car whenever the key is close enough. The signal is the digital serial number which is matched to the transponder inside your car. If the signals are compatible then you'll be able to operate your car. This is the best anti-theft technology an automaker can put in place because it makes car theft impossible for anyone who does not have a valid key.
There are several kinds of transponder keys that can be used in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some keys have an embedded transponder in the head. Some have a remote key fob which includes the transponder of the key. Key fobs usually include buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle and set the alarm and other functions.
A locksmith can assist you obtain a new transponder key for your car and can even program it for you, if needed. This procedure is usually straightforward and involves only just a few steps. The new key needs to be cut with a metal key cutter. This can be done at any automotive store. The transponder keys that are blank must then be programmed by an expert locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is generally extremely quick and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars come with an electronic remote keyless system that requires fob. The fob is used to send a signal from your vehicle to open the doors or start the motor. If it is equipped, it will also open the boot.
Keep in mind that a car fob is different from the traditional metal keys you may have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that has to be programmed correctly to work with your specific vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob on your own. It is always recommended to bring your key fob to an expert for cutting and programming.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some have a key that can be folded inside, like the switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be hidden away when it's not being used. You can also find fobs that appear more like an ordinary key, but without the foldable key.
It can be difficult to replace your key fob when you lose it. It could require specialized tools or a trip to a dealer. Dealers typically only offer a key fob that is compatible with your car. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your car's security system.
Fortunately the process of obtaining an entirely new key fob is relatively simple when you have the right details. You'll need to know your car's year of manufacture, year of manufacture, and model. Take an extra key that works.
Gather the Necessary Equipment Before you attempt to program your keyfob check the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have the correct tools and equipment. You will be required to enter a particular mode, which may require pressing certain buttons, turning the ignition on/off a certain number times or some combination of these. Some manufacturers might even employ an illuminated light or sound to signal the entry into programming mode.
Once you've gathered the required materials, you can bring your key fob to your nearest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We can help you save time and money by cutting your key fobs at a the lower cost than the dealership. In addition, we are open later than the dealership, so you don't have to rush off to work to cut your key fob and programmed.