Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of car key cutting involves more than just bent metal. It's a skill that provides security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key using the appropriate key cutting method for your car's brand and model. The key-cutting process takes just a few minutes and is much less costly than a replacement 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 key. They are made with patterns that match the pin settings of a lock to unlock it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, however a locksmith with the proper tools will be able to create copies that are more durable and can be used inside your car.
A professional locksmith is also able to create laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it difficult to duplicate the key, and if someone is using a grinder to attempt to duplicate the key they'll likely end up leaving the metal pieces that won't fit in the lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s as an additional layer of security. These keys contain a chip inside the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to inform it that it is authentic. If the chip on the car's key isn't matched, your car won't start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require professional programming.
Smart keys are the latest development in car keys. These are a combination of a traditional mechanical key and a remote control. You can open and start your vehicle with this key and operate it by remote. A mobile professional auto locksmith can create replacement smart keys for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the latest technology.
Hardware stores are not the best option to purchase a new mechanical key to replace the one that has been damaged or lost. The majority of hardware stores do not have the tools or highly-trained experts to create keys that work in your vehicle. You'll save money and be more secure if you delegate the design of your key to a professional.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys can be more expensive than regular blanks, but they offer an extra layer of security to your car. They are cut from the middle using a laser which allows them to be put into the lock from either side, and work. They also have a different design and are more difficult to duplicate.
It is possible to tell a laser-cut key apart from bladed keys with traditional design by the wider shank with smaller grooves that have been carved. This means the key is more difficult to turn than a standard key which makes it harder for thieves to gain entry into your car without much time and effort. These keys are less likely to get caught in the lock, since they have more precise cutting.
When you insert a key cut with lasers into your lock it sends a signal to your car's receiver that matches its unique pattern. This lets the car know it's the correct key, and can be started. If a thief does manage to obtain an unauthorized copy of your key, the vehicle's transmitter will not recognize it and not start.
Laser-cut keys have been in use in luxury vehicles since the 1990s. They are more expensive and require special equipment to create, but they provide an additional layer of security for your vehicle. If you lose yours, a professional locksmith will be able to replace it quickly and easily for an affordable price.
Depending on your car depending on the model, you might need to have a transponder chip programmed into the key to allow it to work. You cannot do this yourself, and car dealerships charge a lot for it. A good locksmith should be able to program your transponder for you even though they may not have the same degree of expertise as your local dealer.
The majority of newer vehicles come with laser-cut keys that feature transponder chips that provide an extra layer of security. mobile car key cutting are synchronized with your car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the key prior to beginning the engine. Even if a thief manages to steal the key and copy it but isn't in a position to start your car since the engine won't start in the event that it doesn't have a proper code.
Transponder Keys
Almost any car built in the past 20 years or so will have a transponder chip inside of it. These are essentially radio transmitters that prevent your car from starting without the correct key in place. This was a significant breakthrough 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 completely). The transponder chip was able to solve all of this because it could only allow the car to turn on for a short time while also registering that there was a genuine key in the ignition.
A normal transponder key will look much like a normal metal key, but with a plastic top. This plastic top contains the actual transponder which will send a message to your car when the key is close to. This signal contains the digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible, you will be capable of operating your car. This is the most effective security system the car manufacturer can employ because it makes car theft impossible for anyone without a valid key.
There are several types of transponder keys which can be utilized in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some keys include a transponder chip in the head. Others have remote keys that includes the transponder of the key. Key fobs often come with buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your car or set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help get you a new transponder for your vehicle and can even program it if needed. This process is usually fairly simple and involves several steps. The new key must be cut with a metal key cutter. This can be accomplished at any auto shop. Then, the transponder key will need to be programmed for your particular vehicle by an auto locksmith who is a professional. The programming process is usually fast and takes around 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. If it's equipped, it can also open the boot.
Be aware that the car fob is different from the standard metal keys you've got on your keychain. It's a complicated piece of electronic equipment that needs to be properly programmed to work with your specific vehicle. This is why you shouldn't attempt to cut your fob yourself. It's best 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, like a switchblade. This allows the fob to be smaller and tucked away when not in use. There are also fobs that look more like an ordinary key, but without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob, it could be a major hassle to find an alternative. It may 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 technical knowledge to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your car's security system.
The process of getting the replacement key fob you need can be quite simple if have the correct information. To begin, you'll need to know the year, model and year of your vehicle. Also, you should have a working spare key that you can bring with you.
Gather the Necessary Equipment: Before you attempt to program your keyfob check the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you have the correct tools and equipment. You'll need to enter a specific mode that may require switching the ignition off and on at a specific number of times, pressing specific buttons or the combination of both. Some manufacturers may even employ a flashing light or a sound to signal the start of programming mode.
You can take your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to get it programmed and cut. We'll save you time and money as we cut your key fobs at a lower price than the dealership. In addition, we are open later than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to work to cut your key fob and programmed.