Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece. It's a skill that offers security and ease of mind to vehicle owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the correct key cutting technique for your make and model. The process of cutting keys takes just a few minutes and is much less costly than a replacement car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to early automotive locks and are the most basic kind of car key. They are made up of grooves and ridges carved into them that line up with the pins in the lock that allows you to open it. Mechanical keys can be copied from many hardware stores, however a professional locksmith equipped with the right tools will generally have better success making copies that are more durable and can work with your vehicle.
A professional locksmith is also able to create laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys because they have grooves on both sides. This makes it more difficult to make copies and, if someone attempts to make use of a grinder to the key, they will likely leave behind a lot of metal pieces which will not fit into the lock.
In the 1990s, transponder keys were developed to add another layer of security. They have a tiny chip inside the head that transmits information to your car, so it can verify that it's genuine keys. If the chip on the car's key isn't properly matched, the vehicle will not start. These keys are more costly than a mechanical key and require professional programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the newest development in car keys. They're a combination of the traditional mechanical key and remote control. This 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 create smart keys for your car within a matter of minutes, using the latest technology.
Many people believe that they can get a replacement for their lost or damaged mechanical key at the hardware store but this is not a safe practice. The majority of chains don't have the proper equipment or highly trained professionals to make an excellent key that can be used in your vehicle. It is better to hand over the making of your key to a professional and you will most likely save money in the long run by choosing this option.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys are more expensive to make than standard key blanks but offer an additional layer of security for your car. They are carved from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be placed into the lock on either side and still function. They have a distinctive design and are more difficult to duplicate.
It is possible to discern a laser-cut key from traditional bladed keys by the larger shank, which has smaller grooves that have been carved. This means that the key is more difficult to turn than the standard key and makes it more difficult for thieves to open your car without much time and effort. The keys are less likely to be caught in the lock, since they have more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut keys into your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the car's receiver. This informs the car that it's the right key and can be started. If a criminal manages to obtain an unauthorised copy of your key, your vehicle's transmitter will not be able to recognize it and refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys first came out in the 1990s and are used in many luxury cars. They cost more to produce than standard key blanks and require specialized equipment, but they do add an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace yours quickly and efficiently at a reasonable cost if you lose it.
You might need to have the transponder chip programmed in your key, based on the vehicle you own. It's not something you can do by yourself, and dealerships charge a lot to do it. A good locksmith is likely to be able program your transponder on your behalf even though they may not have the same degree of expertise as your local dealer.
Transponder chips are included in the keys of most newer cars to provide an additional layer of security. These chips are synchronized with your car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the keys before beginning the engine. Even if a burglar manages to steal the key and copy it but isn't capable of using it to start your car because the engine will refuse to start when it doesn't have the correct code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are found in the majority of cars manufactured within the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters that can prevent your car from starting without the correct key in place. This was a major advancement in the fight against car theft as thieves had come up with a variety of ways to start cars by brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system entirely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this, since it allowed the car to be turned on for a brief period of time. It also verified that there was a key present.
A standard transponder can look like a key made of steel with the top made of plastic. This plastic top houses the transponder which sends an alert to your car when the key is close enough. This signal contains the digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder inside of your car. If the signals are compatible the car's transponder, it will allow you to operate it. This is one of the most effective methods of anti-theft technologies that the car manufacturer has put in place as it has made car theft almost impossible for anyone who doesn't possess a valid key.
There are a variety of types of transponder keys which can be used in your vehicle, based on the model. Some keys include an embedded transponder in the head. Some have a remote fob that contains the transponder chip of the key. Key fobs often have buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your car, set an alarm, and perform other functions.
A locksmith can assist you obtain an updated transponder key to your vehicle and even program it for you, if needed. This process is usually fairly easy and requires only a few steps. The first step is that the new key needs to be cut with a regular metal key cutter , which is usually be done at any auto retailer. Then, the transponder key must be programmed to your specific vehicle by an experienced auto locksmith. The process of programming is generally extremely quick and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars have a remote keyless system that requires a fob. The key fob sends a signal from your vehicle to unlock the doors, or start the motor. It can also open the trunk, provided it's equipped.
Keep in mind that the car fob differs from the traditional metal keys that you might have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that must be properly programmed to work with your specific vehicle. You should never try to cut your key fob by yourself. It is best to leave cutting and programming of your key fobs to professionals.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some have an open key that folds inside, like the switchblade. This lets the fob become smaller and to be stored away when not being used. You can find fobs without the foldable feature, that appear like regular-sized keys.
If you lose your key fob it can be a real trouble to obtain replacement. It could require specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers can often only provide a key fob that is compatible with your model. The dealer has the technical knowledge to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's security system.
The process of obtaining a replacement key fob can be relatively simple if you have the right information. For starters, you need to know the year, model and year of your vehicle. You should also have a working spare key to bring along.
Gather Necessary Tools: Before trying to program your key fob, consult the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure you have all the necessary 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 in a certain amount of times, or some combination of these. Some manufacturers may even signal the entry into programming mode with a sound or light flash.
Once you've gathered the required materials, you'll be able to bring your key fob to the closest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We can help you save time and money by cutting your key fobs for a much more reasonable price than the dealership. We are open later than the dealer so you don't have to rush to get your keyfob programed and cut.