Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting car keys requires more than just cutting a piece of metal. It's a skill that provides security and ease of mind for car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting procedure for your car's make and model. The key-cutting process takes a matter of minutes and is less expensive than buying a new car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the most basic type of car keys. They have a pattern that matches the pins of the 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 work with your vehicle.
A professional locksmith is also able to make keys that are laser-cut. They are more secure than a traditional mechanical key since they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it harder to duplicate the key and, if someone uses a grinder to attempt to duplicate the key they'll likely end up leaving some metal pieces that won't fit in the lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were invented as an additional layer of security. These keys contain a tiny chip inside the head that communicates with your car to ensure it's authentic keys. If the chip inside your key is not matched to your vehicle, it will not start and will remain unresponsive. These keys are more costly than a mechanical key and require expert cutting and programming.
Smart keys are the newest technology in car keys. These are a combination between a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can open and start your car using this key, and do it via remote. A mobile professional auto locksmith can create smart keys that can be replaced for your vehicle in just a few minutes using the latest technology.
Many people may think that they can find an alternative for a damaged or lost mechanical key from hardware stores, but this is not an appropriate method. Most chains do not have the right equipment or highly trained professionals to be able to create a quality key that works in your vehicle. You will save money and be more secure if you delegate the making of the key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to make than standard key blanks 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 end and still work. They also have a unique pattern and are harder to duplicate.
The wider shank and fewer grooves will help you distinguish a laser-cut from a traditional bladed key. This makes the key harder to turn than the standard key which makes it harder for thieves to open your car without much time and effort. These keys are less likely to be stuck in the lock as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut key inside your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the car's receiver. This lets the car know it's the correct key and it can be used to start. If a criminal manages to steal an unauthorized copy of your key, your vehicle's transmitter will not register it and will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys have been in use in luxury cars since the 1990s. They are more expensive and require specialized equipment them, but they offer an additional layer of security for your vehicle. If you lose yours, an experienced locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and easily for an affordable price.
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 by yourself, and dealerships charge a lot to do it. A good locksmith will be able program your transponder, however they might not have the same experience than your local dealer.
key cutting car G28 Car Keys are included in the keys of most newer vehicles to provide an additional layer of security. These chips are registered with your ignition system, allowing it to verify the key before making the motor start. Even if the person who stole it is able to steal and duplicate the key, they won't be able use it to start the car since the engine won't start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are present in nearly all vehicles built in the last 20 years. They are basically radio transmitters that can keep your car from starting without the correct key installed. This was a significant advancement 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 this because it only allowed the car to start for a short time, while also registering that there was a valid key in place.
A standard transponder can look like a key made of metal with an outer cover made of plastic. This plastic top houses the transponder that will send a signal to your car whenever the key is close enough. This signal contains a serial number digital that is identical to the transponder in your car. If the signals match, your car will allow you to operate it. This is the best security system a car manufacturer can implement as it makes car theft impossible for anyone who does not have a valid key.
Based on the model, there are several different types of transponder key that are available. Some are equipped with the traditional transponder chip which is located in the head of the key. Some include an accessory fob that houses the transponder chip of the key. Key fobs often come with buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your car, set an alarm, and perform other functions.
A locksmith can assist you in getting you a new transponder to your vehicle, and even program it if you need to. This process is usually simple and involves only just a few steps. The new key has to be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any car dealership. The transponder keys that are blank must then 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 fob is used to send the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors or start the motor. It can also open the trunk, if equipped.
It's important to note that a car key fob isn't like the traditional key you might have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly in order to work with your vehicle. This is why you shouldn't attempt cutting your own fob. It is recommended to leave the cutting and programming of your key fobs to professionals.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some have a key that folds inside it, much like a switchblade. This reduces the size of the fob and allows it to be tucked away when not in use. There are also fobs that look more like a regular key, without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob, it can be a real hassle to find replacement. It could require specialized tools or a trip to a dealer. Often, the dealer can only provide a fob that works with your specific model. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your car's safety system.
The process of getting the replacement key fob you need can be relatively simple if you have the correct details. First, you have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle. Take an extra key that works.
Get the tools you need: Prior to beginning to program your key fob, make sure you read the manual of the manufacturer to ensure that you have all the required tools and equipment. You'll have to enter a specific mode that might involve switching the ignition off and on for a certain amount of times, triggering certain buttons or any combination of these. Some manufacturers may even employ a flashing light or sound to signal the switch to programming mode.
Once you've collected the necessary materials, you'll be able to 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 much more reasonable price than the dealership. We are open later than the dealer, so you won't need to rush to work to get your keyfob programed and cut.