Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional car key cutting service ensures an easy start and avoids any potential problems. They use advanced machines to guarantee precision and offer warranties for their services.
For most modern cars it is a transponder chip that is required in the key fob. These are sophisticated electronic devices that need to by programmed by a dealership or a locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car key or the fob for your key breaks your first thought could be to go to your local dealer. The dealership is the official dealer of your vehicle so they should be able to provide you with an extra key. However, you may be shocked to learn the cost of their services could be. There are plenty of other options that can save you money on the replacement of your key.
Although car dealerships have an extensive selection of keys for cars and key fobs, they often charge more than other retailers. Plus, they may not be able to create your specific type of key. Certain cars of recent years require keys that are laser-cut, which requires special equipment to duplicate, program, and create. Most locksmiths don't offer this service and have to outsource it to a third party.
An alternative to the dealership is a home improvement store that offers key-making services. Hardware stores typically have various blanks that can be used to create different kinds of keys for cars, which means they are able to meet most requirements. These stores are generally cheaper than dealerships.
In addition to providing a wide assortment of car key blanks, home improvement stores also have the tools and expertise to create replacement keys and key fobs. They can create laser-cut keys that are more difficult to duplicate than traditional metal ones. They can also reprogram your fobs when required.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the equipment to create standard house keys, transponder keys, and key fobs. You'll have to call ahead if you'd like to have keys made.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, offer key-making services. In fact, you can get keys for your car or a key fob made for less than $15 at many locations! These stores have a huge variety of blanks available and can even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible in the event that the original key has a microchip that can be programmed into the car's computer system.
Locksmiths
It's not a good idea to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys the best thing you can do is call an emergency locksmith. They will quickly cut and replace your keys. In a lot of areas automotive locksmiths are available 24/7 assistance to help out in a pinch. They can cut any kind of key, from transponder to standard, and they'll also handle VAT systems for more recent automobiles.
Most AutoZone locations are able to replace your car keys. The process is straightforward: A staff member selects the correct key blank based on your year, make and model. A machine then traces the original contours on the current key. This ensures your replacement key will be perfectly. If your key is equipped with a chip integrated into the fob, it will most likely need to be programmed with the computer in your vehicle.
Some auto locksmiths have the ability to reprogram your key for less than a dealership. g28carkeys.co.uk provide faster turnaround times and are a great option if you're in a rush. However, an outside locksmith may not be able operate on the most sophisticated vehicles, like the ones that have smart keys.
The average car key is $10 to cut at Walmart, so it's an affordable alternative when you need just a traditional key duplicated. Remember that keys made by machines are less likely than hand-made keys to last, and they will weather over time. It is best to employ an emergency locksmith to make sure your spare keys last a long time.
Some modern cars have a smart key that triggers the car's proximity sensors. They're the most popular and convenient keys, but they are also the most difficult to replace when you don't have an original. The majority of locksmiths in the automotive industry will duplicate a smart-key but you must bring proof of ownership, such as a registration or title, or purchase document. You may also be required to pay for the tow truck to bring your car back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you can't get to the dealership or locksmith, online key-by-VIN suppliers offer a convenient method of making a spare car key. These companies create keys for replacement that is a factory original with the VIN number. They charge less than dealers or locksmiths, but you'll need an automotive technician in order to pair the key.
Most cars from 1990 and on come with a transponder chip within the key that needs to be programmed into the vehicle in order to function. It is crucial to use the car key code rather than the VIN when you purchase a key online through a key-by-VIN service. If you choose to use the VIN, it's likely that the key won't work if the ignition has been replaced or the door locks have been changed.
Remember that while online key-by VIN suppliers can cut keys, they are not able to provide you with a programmed key for your vehicle. This will still require an auto technician, so make sure you include this cost in your budget.
Dealers, locksmiths and online key-by VIN suppliers are the most reliable in terms of precision. All of them cut their keys using codes, resulting in an authentic OEM key. In contrast the big box stores cut their keys with an automated machine that could become less accurate as time passes and could result in a key that doesn't work properly.
The process of obtaining a key using VIN from a trusted locksmith or dealer will be much cheaper than ordering one from a website. The majority of online resellers come from overseas and use low-quality parts and construction methods. In addition, you won't receive any kind of warranty or support if something happens to the key.
It is crucial to have an inventory of transponders, keys, blank keys and remotes for each model of vehicle you service. You can save time and money by utilizing the OEM websites of manufacturers to locate keys for cars that are based on VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
In the age of online shopping, you might think that you have no reason to leave the safety of your home. Not all shopping experiences are the same. Some, like getting your car key cut are much better done in person than via the mouse. A lot of big box stores have the necessary equipment and know-how to make your key. While these stores may not be as reliable as a locksmith or a web-based key-by-VIN vendor, they have the advantage of being easy and affordable.
An auto parts store is the most common location to get your key cut. It is a simple and quick process if you have a standard, un-chipped key. These stores have key cutting machines that can duplicate the contours of your key in a matter of minutes.
Another option is a chain hardware store such as Ace Hardware. These chains also have key cutting machines and they can duplicate all types of keys. However, if you have a modern key that is part of a key fob, or has a chip in it, these stores will not be able to assist you.
A few of the more specialized hardware stores like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the ability to make chip-related key copies. It is recommended to contact the store in your area to find out whether it is able to make this type of key before you visit.
If you own a security key, you'll need to visit your nearest AutoZone location. They have the expertise of technology, tools, and equipment to duplicate high-security keys including keys that are integrated into key fobs. A representative will select the appropriate key blank for the year and make of your vehicle and then use a key-cutting device to duplicate the original contours. It will take a bit longer than a standard key, but it will give you the assurance that your key is secure should it be lost or stolen.