Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece. It's an art that ensures security and convenience as well as peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the appropriate key cutting technique for your car's brand and model. The process of cutting keys is only a few minutes and is cheaper than purchasing a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the most basic type of car keys. They are made up of ridges and grooves cut into them that line up with the pins in a specific lock to unlock it. The majority of hardware stores can duplicate mechanical keys, but a locksmith with the proper tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and work in your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can make laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to duplicate the key and if someone is using grinders to try to duplicate the key they'll likely end up leaving some metal pieces that will not fit into your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an extra layer of security. They have an embedded chip in the head of the key that communicates with your car to inform it that it is authentic. If the chip inside your car's key is not compatible, your car will not start. These keys are more expensive than a mechanical key and require expert cutting and programming.
Smart keys are the newest evolution in car keys. They are the result of combining a traditional mechanical key and a remote control. You can unlock and start your car with this key and operate it via remote. A professional auto locksmith on the move can make replacement smart keys for your vehicle in just a few minutes using the most advanced technology.
Hardware stores are not the best place to get an alternative mechanical key for damaged or lost keys. The majority of chains don't have the proper equipment or highly trained professionals to be able to create a quality key that will work well in your vehicle. It is safer to leave the creation of your key to a professional, and you'll likely save money in the long run by choosing this option.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to produce than standard keys, but they provide a higher level of security for your vehicle. Lasers are used to cut keys from the middle, allowing them to be inserted into the lock on either side and still function. They also have a different pattern and are harder to duplicate.
It is possible to distinguish a key made of lasers from bladed keys with traditional design by the thicker shank that has smaller grooves that have been carved. 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 a lot of time and effort. These keys are also less likely to get stuck in locks because they are more precise cut.
When you insert the laser-cut keys inside your lock, a unique signal is sent to the receiver of your car. This informs the car that it's the right key and can be used to start. If a criminal manages to obtain an unauthorized copy of your key, the car's transmitter will not register it and will not start.
Laser-cut keys have been utilized in luxury cars since the 1990s. They cost more to make than regular key blanks and require specialized equipment, but they do add an additional 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 your car it may be necessary to have a transponder chip programmed into the ignition to get it to work. This isn't something that you can do on your own, and most car dealers will charge an amount of money to complete the task for you. A reputable locksmith will be able to program your transponder on your behalf however they might not have the same degree of expertise as the dealer you are dealing with.
Transponder chips are included in the keys of many newer cars to provide an extra layer security. These chips are registered with the ignition system, allowing it to verify the key prior to beginning the engine. Even if the thief is capable of stealing and copying the key, they will not be able to start the car since the engine won't start in the event that the code isn't valid.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips can be found in the majority of cars manufactured within the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters that stop your car from being started without the right keys. This was a significant advancement in the fight against auto theft because thieves had discovered a myriad of ways to start vehicles by brute force (pushing the ignition switch with the flat screwdriver) and hot-wiring (bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was able to solve the problem since it only allowed the car to turn on for a brief period of time while also registering that there was a genuine key in place.
A standard transponder can look like a key made of steel with an outer cover made of plastic. The plastic top houses the actual transponder, which will send a signal to your car when the key is near enough. The signal is a digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible the car's transponder, it will allow you to operate it. This is among the best forms of anti-theft technology that a car manufacturer has implemented since it has made car theft nearly impossible for anyone who doesn't possess a valid key.
Depending on the model, there are several different types of transponder key that can be used. Some of them have a traditional transponder chip that is housed in the head of the key. Some also have a remote fob which houses the transponder of the key. Key fobs often include buttons that permit you to lock/unlock the car and set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can assist you get an updated transponder key to your vehicle and even program it for you, if necessary. The process is typically simple and involves only the following steps. The new key must be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any automotive store. The transponder keys blanks will then need to be programmed by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is typically extremely quick and takes around 10 minutes.
see use an electronic keyless entry system that requires a fob. The fob is used to send a signal from your vehicle to unlock the doors, or start the motor. It also opens the trunk, provided it's equipped.
It's important to note that a car key fob isn't like the typical metal key you've got on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. This is why you shouldn't attempt to cut your fob yourself. It is always advisable to bring your key fob to an expert to cut and program it.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some have keys that fold inside it, similar to a switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be tucked away when it's not being used. There are fobs without the foldable feature, that appear like regular-sized keys.
It isn't easy to replace your key fob in the event that you lose it. It may require special tools or a visit to the dealer. Often, dealers can only offer a fob compatible with your specific model. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your car's safety system.
Fortunately the process of obtaining a new key fob is fairly easy if you have the right details. To begin, you'll need to know the year, make and model of your car. Take with you a spare key that is functional.
Make sure you have the required equipment Before you begin to program your keyfob go through the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you have the correct tools and equipment. You will be required to enter a particular mode, which could involve pressing certain buttons and turning the ignition off or on in a certain amount of times, or a combination. Certain manufacturers may also signal the entry into programming mode by making a sound or light flash.
You can take your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to have it programmed and cut. We can save you time and money because we cut your key fobs at a lower price 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.