Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece. It's an art that ensures 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 appropriate key cutting technique for your particular model and make. The key-cutting procedure takes only few minutes and is cheaper than buying a new car key at the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the simplest kind of car keys and go back to the beginning of locking mechanisms for automobiles. They have patterns that match the pins of the lock to open it. Most hardware stores can copy mechanical keys, but a locksmith with the proper tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and can be used in your car.
A professional locksmith can also make keys that are laser-cut. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they have grooves on both sides. This makes it difficult to duplicate the key, and if someone uses grinders to try to copy it, they'll likely leave the metal pieces that will not fit in the lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were invented to add another layer of security. They have a tiny chip in their head that communicates with your car so it knows it's genuine keys. If the chip inside your car's key is not matched, your car will not start. Keys that are programmed to be more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the latest advancement in car keys. They are the result of combining the traditional mechanical key and remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your car using the key, and allows you to do so from a distance. A mobile auto locksmith can make smart keys for your car in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Hardware stores aren't the best option to purchase a replacement mechanical key for the one that has been damaged or lost. The majority of hardware stores do not have the tools or highly-trained professionals to create keys that work in your vehicle. You'll save money as well as be more secure if you delegate the creation of the key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to produce than standard key blanks but they provide a higher level of security for your car. Lasers are used to cut keys from the middle, allowing them to be inserted into the lock on either end, and work. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has fewer grooves will help you identify a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This means the key is harder to turn than the standard key and makes it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. Keys with this design are also less likely to get stuck in the lock because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert a laser-cut key into your lock it sends a signal to your car's receiver that matches its unique pattern. This informs the car that it's the correct key and can be used to start. If a criminal gets their hands on a stolen key, the vehicle's transmitter will not be able to recognize it. It 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 to make them, but they offer an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose one, a professional locksmith will be able to replace it quickly and easily for an affordable price.
You might need to have the transponder chip programmed in your key based on the car you own. This isn't something you can do by yourself and the majority of car dealers will charge an amount of money to complete the task for you. A reputable locksmith will be able program your transponder, but they might not have the same experience than your local dealer.
The majority of modern cars have laser-cut keys with transponder chips to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system, allowing it to check that the key is genuine before starting the engine. Even if a thief manages to steal the key and duplicate it but isn't in a position to start your car because the engine will refuse to start if it doesn't have the correct code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are found in almost all cars built within the last 20 years. These are essentially radio transmitters that prevent your car from starting if you don't have the proper key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft, as thieves had developed many ways to start cars by brute force. (Pushing key car cutting using flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was able to solve all of that as it only allowed the car to turn on for a short period of time, while also registering that there was a genuine key in the ignition.
A normal transponder will appear like a key made of steel with a top made of plastic. The plastic top houses the actual transponder which will send a signal to your car once the key is in close proximity. The signal is comprised of the digital serial number that matches 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 because it makes car theft almost impossible for anyone without a valid key.
There are a few different types of transponder keys that can be used in your vehicle, based on the model. Some have the traditional transponder chip which is housed inside the head of the key. Some include an accessory fob that houses the transponder chip of the key. Key fobs typically have buttons on them which allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle and set the alarm and many other functions.
A locksmith can assist you in getting you a new transponder to your vehicle and will programme it if required. The process is typically simple and requires only a few simple steps. The new key must be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any auto shop. Then, the transponder key must be programmed for your particular vehicle by an experienced auto locksmith. The process of programming is typically very quick and only takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars have an electronic remote keyless system that requires a fob. The fob transmits 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 is not like the typical metal key that you may have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that must be programmed correctly in order to work with your vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob by yourself. It is recommended to leave cutting and programming of your key fobs to professionals.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some have keys that folds inside, much like the switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be hidden away when not in use. You can also find fobs that resemble the regular key, but without the foldable key.
It can be difficult to replace your key fob if you lose it. It may require special tools or a visit to the dealer. Dealers typically only offer an item that is compatible with your car. This is because the dealer has the technological experience to ensure that the replacement fob works with the security system of your vehicle.
Fortunately, the process of getting the new key fob you want is fairly easy if you have the right information. To begin, you'll need to know the year, model and year of your car. Bring an extra key that is functional.
Gather the necessary tools: Before beginning to program your key fob, read the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you have all the required tools and equipment. You'll be required to enter a specific mode, which may require pressing certain buttons and turning the ignition off or on a certain number times or some combination of these. Some manufacturers may even signal the switch to programming mode by sound or light flash.
Once you've collected the necessary items, you can take 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 and you won't have hurry to have your key fob programmed and cut.