Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting keys for cars requires more than just cutting a piece of metal. It's a technique that provides security and convenience as well as peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key using the appropriate key cutting procedure for your car's make and model. The process of cutting keys takes a matter of minutes and is much less costly than a replacement car key from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the most basic type of car key. They have a pattern that matches the pin settings of a lock to open it. The majority of hardware stores can duplicate mechanical keys, but locksmiths with the right tools can make copies that are more durable and will work in your vehicle.
A professional locksmith is also capable of making laser-cut keys. They are more secure than a traditional mechanical key due to the fact that they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it more difficult to copy the key and, if someone uses a grinder to attempt to do so they'll likely end up leaving some metal pieces that won't fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s as an extra layer of security. These keys have a small chip in their head that communicates to your car to ensure it's authentic keys. If the chip inside your car's key is not compatible, your car will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require professional programming.
Smart keys are the newest advancement in car keys. They are a combination of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can unlock and start your car with this key, and do it remotely. A mobile professional auto locksmith can make smart keys that can be replaced for your vehicle in a matter of minutes, using the most advanced technology.
Many people think they can get a replacement for their lost or damaged mechanical key from hardware stores however this isn't a safe practice. auto key cutting do not have the proper equipment or highly skilled experts to be able to create an authentic key that can be used in your vehicle. It is better to leave the creation of your key to a professional, and you'll save money in the end by choosing this option.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to make than standard key blanks, but they provide a higher level of security for your car. Lasers are used to cut them from the middle, allowing them to be inserted into the lock on either end, and work. They have a distinctive pattern and are more difficult to duplicate.
You can tell a laser-cut key apart from bladed keys with traditional design by the thicker shank that has less grooves carved. This makes the key more difficult to turn than the standard key and makes it more difficult for thieves to open your car without much time and effort. These keys are also less likely to become stuck in the lock since they have a more precise cut.
When you insert a key cut with lasers into your lock, it sends a signal to your car's receiver which matches its unique pattern. This informs the car that it's the right key and it can be used to start. If a burglar manages to get their hands on a stolen key, the vehicle transmitter will not be able to recognize it. It will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys were introduced in the 1990s and are now used in a variety of luxury vehicles. They cost more to make than regular key blanks and require specialized equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose yours a professional locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and efficiently for an affordable price.
Depending on the model of your car depending on the model, you might 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 an amount of money to do it for you. A reliable locksmith can programme your transponder, but they might not have the same experience as your local dealer.
The majority of newer vehicles come with laser-cut keys that feature transponder chips that provide an additional layer of security. These chips are registered with the car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the keys before starting the motor. Even if the person who stole it is capable of stealing and replicating the key, they will not be able use it to start the car as the engine won't start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Almost any car built in the past 20 years or that's why it has a transponder chip in it. These are radio transmitters that prevent your car from being started without the correct keys. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft since thieves had devised a variety of methods to start cars with brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was able to solve the problem since it could only allow the car to be turned on for a short time, while also registering that there was a valid key in the ignition.
A normal transponder keys will look like a regular metal key, but with a plastic top. This plastic top houses the actual transponder which sends an alert to your car whenever the key is near enough. The signal is an electronic 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 best forms of anti-theft technology a car manufacturer has implemented because it has made car theft nearly impossible for anyone who does not have a valid keys.
Based on the model, there are different types of transponder key that are available. Some are equipped with a traditional transponder chip that is contained inside the head of the key. Some also have a remote fob that contains the transponder chip of the key. Key fobs often include buttons that permit you to lock/unlock the car or set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help you get you a new transponder for your vehicle and will program it if you need to. This process is usually simple and requires only the following steps. The new key has to be cut with a metal key cutter. This can be accomplished at any automotive store. The blank transponder keys will then need to be programmed by a professional locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is generally extremely quick and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have an electronic keyless entry system that requires a fob. The fob transmits a signal from your vehicle to unlock the doors, or start the motor. If equipped, it can also unlock the boot.
Be aware that a car fob is different from the standard metal keys you've got on your keychain. It's a complicated piece of electronic equipment that has to be correctly programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. This is why you shouldn't attempt cutting your own fob. It is recommended to leave cutting and programming of your fobs to professionals.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some have a key that folds inside it, similar to a switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be put away when it's not in use. There are also fobs that appear more like an ordinary key, but without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob, it could be a major hassle to find replacement. It could require specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers typically only offer an item that is compatible with the model you have. This is because the dealer has the technological experience to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with the security system of your vehicle.
The process of finding the replacement key fob you need can be quite simple if have the correct information. For starters, you need to know the year, model and year of your vehicle. Bring an extra key that is functional.
Gather the Necessary Equipment Before you attempt to program your keyfob, go through the instruction manual provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have the right tools and equipment. You will need to enter a particular mode that might involve turning the ignition on and off at a specific number of times, pressing certain buttons or a combination of both. Some manufacturers may even signal entry into programming mode with a sound or flashing lights.
You can bring your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to have it cut and programmed. We can save you time and money as we cut your key fobs for a lower price than the dealership. Most importantly, we stay open later than the dealership, so you don't have to rush off to work to cut your key fob and programmed.