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 that ensures security and ease of mind for vehicle owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the appropriate key cutting procedure for your model and make. The process of cutting keys takes a matter of minutes and is less expensive than buying a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the most basic type of car key and dates back to the beginning of locking mechanisms for automobiles. They have a pattern of grooves and ridges cut into them that line up with the pins in the lock that allows you to unlock it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, however locksmiths with the right tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and will work inside 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 make copies, and if someone tries to use a grinder on the key, they'll likely leave behind a large amount of metal pieces that will not fit in the lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an extra layer of security. These keys contain a tiny chip in their head that transmits information to your car, so it can verify that it's genuine keys. If the chip in the key of your car is not compatible, your car will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the latest evolution in car keys. They are a combination of keys that are mechanical and wireless remote control. This lets you unlock and start your car by using the key. It also lets you do it from an extended distance. A mobile auto locksmith can create smart keys for your car within a matter of minutes, using the latest technology.
Hardware stores are not the best option for a replacement mechanical key for the one that has been damaged or lost. The majority of chains don't have the right equipment or highly skilled professionals to be able to create a quality key that works in your vehicle. It is safer to leave the design of your key to a professional, and you'll likely save money over the long term by choosing this option.
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 carve keys from the middle, allowing them to be inserted into the lock on either end, and work. They also have a unique pattern and are harder to duplicate.
It is possible to tell a laser-cut key apart from bladed keys with traditional design by the larger shank, which has less grooves carved. This makes it harder for thieves to steal your car because the key is harder to turn. Keys with this design are less likely to be trapped in locks, since they have more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut key in your lock, a unique signal is sent to the car's receiver. This signals the car that it is the right key, and it can be used to start. If a criminal manages to obtain an unauthorised copy of your key, your vehicle's transmitter will not register it and not start.
Laser-cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and are currently used in many luxury cars. They are more expensive and require special equipment to create keys, but they do provide an extra layer security for your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace yours quickly and efficiently at a reasonable price if you lose it.
Depending on the car you drive depending on the model, you might need to have a transponder chip programmed into the ignition to get it to work. This isn't something you can do by yourself, and most car dealerships will charge an amount of money to do it for you. A reputable locksmith is likely to be able program your transponder for you however they might not have the same amount of experience as the dealer you are dealing with.
The majority of newer vehicles come with laser-cut keys with transponder chips that provide an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system and allow it to verify that the key is authentic before you start the engine. Even if the thief is able to steal and duplicate the key, they will not be able use it to start the car since the engine won't start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Most cars built in the last 20 years or so will have an embedded transponder chip within it. These are essentially radio transmitters that will prevent your car from starting if you don't have the correct key installed. This was a major advancement in the fight against car theft, as thieves had developed many 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 a solution to all of this, since it allowed the car to turn on for a short period of time. It also verified that there was a key inside.
A regular transponder will look like a key made of metal with an outer cover made of plastic. This plastic top houses the transponder, which will send the signal to your car whenever the key is close enough. This signal contains a digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible then you'll be in a position to operate your vehicle. This is the most effective anti-theft system that an automaker can put in place as it makes car theft impossible for anyone without an official key.
Depending on the model, there are several different kinds of transponder keys that are available. Some are equipped with the traditional transponder chip which is located in the head of the key. Others come with a remote key fob that has the transponder of the key. Key fobs typically have buttons that allow you to lock/unlock the car, set an alarm, and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help you acquire a new transponder key for your car, and can program it for you, if necessary. This process is usually fairly straightforward and only requires a few steps. The first step is that the new key needs to be cut using a regular metal key cutter, which is usually be done at any auto retailer. Then, the blank transponder key must be programmed for your specific vehicle by a professional auto locksmith. The process of programming is typically fast and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have a remote keyless entry system that requires fob. The fob's key sends an electronic signal to the vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. It also opens the trunk, if equipped.
Keep in mind that the car fob is different from the traditional metal keys you've got on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob by yourself. It is always advisable to take your fob to an expert to cut and program it.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some have keys that folds inside, much like the switchblade. This reduces the size of the fob and allows it to be put away when not in use. You can find fobs without the foldable feature that look like normal-sized keys.
If you lost your key fob, it can be a real pain to get an alternative. It could require specialized tools or a visit to the dealer. Often, the dealer can only offer a fob compatible with the specific model of your car. This is because the dealer has the technology experience to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with the security system of your vehicle.
The process of getting an alternative key fob could be quite simple if have the right information. You will be required to know the car's year, make and model. Bring with you a spare key that is functional.
Make sure you have the required equipment: Before you attempt to program your keyfob review the instructions supplied by the manufacturer to ensure you have the right tools and equipment. You will be required to enter a specific mode, which could involve pressing certain buttons or turning off the ignition at a specific number of times or a combination. Some manufacturers might even employ a flashing light or sound to signal the entry into programming mode.
You can take your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to have it cut and programmed. We'll save you time and money because we cut your key fobs for a lower price than the dealership. our website are also open longer than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to cut your key fob and programmed.