Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting car keys involves more than just bent metal. It's a skill that offers 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 by using the proper key cutting technique for your car's brand and model. The key-cutting process takes a matter of minutes and is less expensive than buying a new car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car key. These keys have a pattern of grooves and ridges cut into them that line up with the pin settings of the lock to unlock it. The majority of hardware stores can duplicate mechanical keys, however locksmiths with the right tools will be able to create copies that are more durable and can be used in your car.
A professional locksmith can also make laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they have grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to copy the key and, if someone uses a grinder to try to duplicate the key they'll likely leave the metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s as an extra layer of security. They have a chip inside the head of the key that communicates with your car to confirm that it is genuine. If the chip on your car's key is not matched, your car will not start. Keys with this type of chip are more expensive than a mechanical key and require a professional programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the latest technology in car keys. They are a combination of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your vehicle using the key, and allows you to do this from the distance. A mobile auto locksmith can design smart keys for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Hardware stores are not the best place to get a replacement mechanical key for the one that has been damaged or lost. The majority of hardware stores don't have the necessary equipment or highly-trained professionals to create an effective key that will work inside your vehicle. You'll save money and be more secure if you let the making of the 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 vehicle. They are carved from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be put into the lock on either side and still work. They feature a distinct pattern that is more difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has fewer grooves will help you discern 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 open your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. cost to get a key cut with this design are less likely to get stuck in the lock as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert a laser-cut keys into your lock it sends a signal to your car's receiver that matches its unique pattern. This signals the car that it is the right key and can be started. If a thief gets their hands on a stolen key, the car's transmitter will not register it. It will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys were introduced in the 1990s and are now used in a wide range of luxury vehicles. They cost more to produce than standard key blanks and require specialized equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose yours, an experienced locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and at an affordable price.
Depending on the model of your car, you may need to have a transponder chip programmed into the key to allow it to work. This isn't something that you can do on your own and the majority of car dealerships will charge you an expense of a few hundred dollars to perform the program for you. A reputable locksmith is likely to be able program your transponder on your behalf however they might not have the same degree of expertise as the dealer you are dealing with.
Most newer cars come with keys laser-cut that have transponder chips that provide an additional layer of security. These chips are registered with your car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the key prior to beginning the engine. Even if the thief is able to steal and duplicate the key, they will not be able to start the car because the engine will not start when the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Most cars built in the past 20 years or so will have an embedded transponder chip within it. These are radio transmitters which make sure your car isn't started without the right keys. This was a major innovation in the fight against auto theft because thieves had discovered a variety of ways to start cars with brute force (pushing the ignition switch using a flat screwdriver) and hot-wiring (bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was the answer to all of this as it only allowed the car to turn on for a short period of time. It also verified that there was a key inside.
A normal transponder will appear like a key made of metal with a top made of plastic. The plastic top houses the transponder that will send the signal to your car whenever the key is near enough. The signal is comprised of an electronic serial number that is identical to the original transponder that is inside your car. If the signals match the car's transponder, it will allow you to operate it. This is among the best forms of anti-theft technologies that a car manufacturer has implemented as it has made car theft nearly impossible for anyone who doesn't have a valid keys.
Depending on the model, there are several different types of transponder key that are available. Certain keys come with an embedded transponder in the head. Some have an electronic key fob which includes the transponder of the key. Key fobs typically come with buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your car, set an alarm, and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help you obtain an updated transponder key to your car and can even program it for you, if needed. This process is usually simple and only involves just a few steps. The new key needs to be cut using a key cutter. This can be accomplished at any car dealership. Then, the transponder keys will need to be programmed for your particular vehicle by an experienced auto locksmith. The programming process is usually extremely quick and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern vehicles have an electronic remote keyless system that requires fob. The fob transmits the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors, or start the motor. It also opens the trunk, provided it's equipped.
It's important to note that the car key fob isn't like the traditional metal key you've got on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly in order to work with your vehicle. It is not recommended to cut your key fob by yourself. It is always advisable to take your fob to a professional to cut and program it.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some come with keys that fold inside it, much like a switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be put away when not in use. There are fobs without the foldable feature, which look like normal-sized keys.
It may be difficult to replace your key fob when you lose it. It may require special tools or a visit to the dealer. Dealers usually only offer the key fob that is compatible with the model you have. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that a replacement fob is compatible with your car's safety system.
Fortunately the process of obtaining an entirely new key fob is relatively simple when you have the right details. You'll be required to know the car's year of manufacture, year of manufacture, and model. You should also have a working spare key to bring along.
Get the necessary equipment Before you attempt to program your keyfob, check the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have the correct tools and equipment. You'll be required to enter a particular mode, which may require pressing certain buttons, turning the ignition on/off at a specific number of times or the combination of. Certain manufacturers may also signal entry into programming mode with a sound or flashing light.
After you've gathered all the necessary items, you can take your key fob into 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 an affordable cost than the dealership. Most importantly, we stay open later than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to get your key fob cut and programmed.