Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal. It's a technique that provides security and convenience as well as peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the correct key cutting method for your model and make. The process of cutting keys is just a few minutes and is less expensive than a replacement car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car key. They have a pattern of grooves and ridges cut into them that line up with the pin settings of the lock that allows you to open it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, but a locksmith with the proper tools can make copies that are more durable and will work inside your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can make keys that are laser-cut. These are more secure than a traditional mechanical key due to the fact that they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it harder to make a copy and, if someone attempts to grind the key, they'll likely leave behind a large amount of metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an extra layer of security. These keys have a chip in the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to let it know it is legitimate. If the chip inside your key isn't matched to your car it will not be able to start and remain in a standstill. These keys are more costly than a mechanical key and require professional cutting and programming.
Smart keys are the newest technology in car keys. They're a mix of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can unlock and start your car using this key and operate it remotely. A mobile auto locksmith can make smart keys for your car in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Many people may think that they can find an alternative for a damaged or lost mechanical key at hardware stores but this is not a good idea. The majority of hardware stores do not have the tools or highly-trained professionals to create an effective key that will work in your vehicle. You'll save money and be more secure if you let the making of the key to professionals.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to produce than standard key blanks but they provide a higher level of security for your car. They are cut from the middle using a laser which allows them to be placed into the lock from either side and still work. They also have a unique pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
It is possible to tell a laser-cut key apart from bladed keys with traditional design by the thicker shank that has smaller grooves that have been carved. This means the key is more difficult to turn than a standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. These keys are also less likely to get stuck in the lock since they are more precise cut.
When you insert a key cut with lasers into your lock it transmits a signal to the car's receiver that matches its unique pattern. This informs the car that it's the correct key and allows it to start. If a thief does manage to obtain an unauthorized copy of your key, your vehicle's transmitter will not register it and refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are now used in many luxury cars. They cost more to make than regular keys and require specialized equipment, but they do add an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace your key quickly and easily at a reasonable price if you lose it.
It is possible that you will need the transponder chip programmed into your key, based on the car you own. You can't do this yourself, and car dealerships charge a significant amount to do it. A reputable locksmith will be able to program your transponder for you however they might not have the same degree of expertise as your local dealer.
Most newer cars come with keys laser-cut that have transponder chips, which provide an extra layer of security. These chips are synchronized with your car's ignition system, allowing it to verify the keys before starting the motor. Even if the person who stole it is able to steal and duplicate the key, they will not be able to start the car since the engine will not start in the event that the code isn't valid.
Transponder Keys
Nearly every car manufactured in the last 20 years or therefore will have an embedded transponder chip within it. These are radio transmitters which prevent your car from being started without the correct keys. This was a major innovation in the fight against auto theft since thieves had discovered a myriad of ways to start cars 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 all of that as it would only allow the car to be turned on for a short time while also registering that there was a genuine key in place.
A regular transponder keys will look like a standard metal key with a transparent top. The plastic top houses the actual transponder that will transmit a signal to your car when the key is close to. This signal has the digital serial number which is matched to the transponder inside your car. If the signals match, you will be capable of operating your car. This is one of the best forms of anti-theft technologies that manufacturers of cars have implemented since it has made car theft almost impossible for anyone who doesn't have a valid keys.
Based on the model, there are several different types of transponder key that can be used. Some keys include a transponder chip in the head. Others come with remote keys which includes the transponder for the key. Key fobs usually have buttons on them that allow you to lock or unlock your car or set the alarm and many other functions.
A locksmith can help you acquire an updated transponder key to your vehicle and even program it for you, if necessary. The process is generally simple and involves several steps. First, the new key has to be cut with the standard metal key cutter, which is usually be done at any automotive retailer. The blank transponder keys must then be programmed by a professional locksmith for your vehicle. The programming process usually takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars come with the remote keyless system which requires fob. The key fob sends the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors, or start the motor. It can also open the trunk, provided it's equipped.
It's important to note that a car key fob is not like the traditional key you might have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. That's why you should never attempt to cut your fob yourself. car keys cut and programmed is recommended to leave the cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some come with an open key that folds inside, much like a switchblade. This allows the fob to be smaller and compact when not in use. There are also fobs that resemble the regular key, but without the foldable key.
If you lost your key fob, it can be a huge hassle to find a replacement. It may require specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. Usually, the dealer will only offer a fob compatible with your specific model. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's safety system.
Fortunately, the process of getting the new key fob you want is fairly simple if you have the correct information. For starters, you need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle. Take an extra key that is functional.
Gather Necessary Tools: Before trying to program your key fob, make sure you read the manual of the manufacturer to ensure you have all of the necessary tools and equipment. You will need to enter a specific mode that could involve turning the ignition on and off at a specific number of times, pressing specific buttons or a combination of both. Some manufacturers may even use a flashing light or a sound to signal the start of programming mode.
You can take your key fob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to get it programmed and cut. We can save you time and money because we cut your key fobs for a lower price than the dealership. We are open earlier than the dealer so you don't have hurry in order to have your key fob programmed and cut.