Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional car key cutting service ensures an easy start and avoids potential issues. They use advanced machines that ensure precision and offer warranties on their services.
For modern vehicles, a transponder chip is required in the key fob. These are highly sophisticated electronic devices that need to by programmed by a dealer or auto locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car key or the key fob breaks the first thing you think of is be to go to your auto dealer. The dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle so they should have the ability to provide you with an additional key. You might be surprised at the cost these services can be. There are plenty of other options to help you save money on replacements for your key.
Although car dealerships have an extensive selection of keys for cars and key fobs, they typically charge higher prices than other retailers. Plus, they may not be able to make the exact type of key you require. For example, some newer automobiles require a specific laser cut key that requires special equipment to originate duplicates, program, and create each one. This is a service that most locksmiths do not offer and must outsource.
An alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that can provide key-making services. The majority of hardware stores stock an array of blanks for different types of car keys, so they are able to meet the majority of needs. Additionally, these stores usually have lower costs than dealerships.
In addition to providing a wide assortment of car key blanks home improvement stores also have equipment and expertise to make replacement keys and key fobs. They are able to create laser-cut keys, which are much harder to copy than traditional keys made of metal. They can also reprogram your fobs if required.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA can also create replacement keys for cars. They have the equipment to make standard house keys, transponder keys and key fobs. However, not all locations can make these keys, so it is best to make a call prior to visiting a specific location.
Some big-box stores, like Rite Aid, offer key-making services. You can also get an auto key for less than 15 dollars at most stores! They have a vast range of blanks and even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible when the original key is equipped with an embedded microchip that can be programmed into the car's computer system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea lose your car keys. If local key cutting lose your car keys the best thing to do is call an emergency locksmith. They can quickly cut and replace your keys. Many locksmiths for automotive provide 24/7 service to help you when you require it. They can cut any type of key, from transponder to standard, and they can also handle VAT systems for more recent cars.
The majority of AutoZone locations have the ability to replace your car key. The process is straightforward: A staff member selects the correct key blank based on the year, make and model. A machine then trace the original contours on your current key. This ensures that the replacement key will fit perfectly. If your key is equipped with an embedded computer chip, the fob, it needs to be programmed.
Certain auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key for an affordable price than the dealership. They'll often also offer a faster turnaround and are a great option if you're in a rush. A locksmith from outside might not be able to work on the latest vehicles, such as ones with smart keys.
Walmart charges $10 on average to cut a car key. This is a more affordable option if you just need a traditional duplicate key. Remember that keys made by machines are less likely than hand-made keys to last, and they will be damaged over time. If you want your spare keys to last a long time, it's best to hire the help of an emergency locksmith.
Certain cars today have a smart key which activates the proximity sensors. These are the most practical and popular keys, but also the hardest to duplicate if you do not have the original. The majority of locksmiths for cars can duplicate a smart-key but you must bring evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title, or purchase document. You may have to pay a tow-truck fee to return your car to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you can't get to the dealership or a locksmith, online key-by-VIN suppliers offer a convenient way to make a spare car key. They create a replacement car key that is a factory original with the VIN number. They charge less than an authorized locksmith or dealer, but you'll need an automotive technician in order to connect the key.
The majority of cars manufactured from 1990 and later come with a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to function. It is important to use the car key code, not the VIN when you purchase an online key from a key-by VIN provider. If you are using the VIN to order the key, it's likely that your key won't work if the ignition or door locks were ever changed.
It's also important to remember that, even though online key-by-VIN providers can cut your keys, they cannot provide you with a key that's programmed to your car. This process will require an auto technician, so make sure you add this cost into your budget.
Dealers, locksmiths and online key-by-VIN providers are the clear winners when it comes to accuracy. They all cut their keys with code, which gives you an authentic OEM-cut key. In contrast the big box stores cut their keys using an automated machine, which can become less accurate as time passes and could result in a key that doesn't perform as expected.
A key purchased online is more expensive than a key purchased from a reputable dealer or locksmith. Most online resellers are sourced from outside the country and employ poor quality components and construction methods. There is no assistance or warranty if the key fails.
A supply of blank keys, remotes and transponders on hand for every model of car you service is essential. To save yourself time and money, you can make use of OEM manufacturers' websites to look up car key codes by VIN or model or make.
Big Box Stores
In today's age of online shopping, you may think that there is no reason to leave the comfort of your home. However there are many different shopping experiences that are made equal. Certain things, such as getting your car keys cut are better done in person rather than using a mouse. There are a lot of big box stores that have the equipment and know how to get your key copied correctly. While these stores may not be as reliable as a locksmith or an online key-by-VIN supplier, they do offer the benefit of being affordable and convenient.
A car parts store is the most popular location to have your key cut. If you own a standard key that doesn't have chips it's a quick and easy process. These stores have key cutting machines that can duplicate the contours of your key in just a few minutes.
Another option is an upscale chain store for hardware such as Ace Hardware. These chains have key cutting machines and can copy the majority of keys. They are unable to assist you when your key is part of a fob, or has chip.
Some of the more specialized stores, such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot across the country, can make copies of keys with chips. You should contact the store in your area to find out whether it is able to make this type of key before you go.
You should visit the nearest AutoZone in the event that you own an item with high security. They have the tools, know-how and technology to duplicate all types of high-security keys including those that are incorporated into the key fob. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture the model, and make the key cutting machine to copy the contours of your current key. This process will take longer than a standard key, but will ensure that your key will be secure in the event that it is lost or stolen.