Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal. It's a technique that offers security, convenience and peace of mind to vehicle owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the proper key cutting procedure for your particular model and make. The process of cutting keys takes just a few minutes and is less expensive than a replacement car key from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the simplest kind of car keys and date back to the early days of automobile locks. These keys have a pattern of ridges and grooves cut into them that align with the pins in the lock to unlock it. The majority of hardware stores can duplicate mechanical keys, but a locksmith with the proper tools will be able to create copies that are more durable and work in your car.
A professional locksmith can also make keys that are laser-cut. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys because they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it more difficult to duplicate the key and if someone is using grinders to try to do so they'll likely end up leaving the metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were created to add another layer of security. These keys contain a tiny chip inside the head that communicates with your car, so it can verify that it's a genuine key. If the chip on your car's key is not properly matched, the car will not start. These keys are more costly than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the newest advancement in car keys. They are a combination of traditional mechanical keys and a remote control. You can open and start your car with this key and do so by remote. A mobile auto locksmith can create smart keys for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Many people may think that they can get an alternative for their damaged or lost mechanical key from the hardware store, but this is not an appropriate method. The majority of chains don't have the proper equipment or highly skilled professionals to be able to create a quality key that works in your vehicle. You'll save money and be more secure if you let the design of your key to professionals.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys can be more expensive than regular blanks, however, they provide an extra security feature to your vehicle. They are cut from the middle using a laser, which allows them to be put in the lock on either side, and work. They also have a different pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
It is possible to distinguish a key made of lasers from bladed keys with traditional design by the thicker shank that has less grooves carved. This makes the key more difficult to turn than an ordinary key and makes it more difficult for thieves to open your car without much time and effort. Keys with this design are also less likely to get stuck in locks because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert the laser-cut key into your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the receiver of your car. This signals the car that it's the correct key, and it can be used to start. If a criminal manages to get their hands on a stolen key, the vehicle transmitter will not register it. It will not start.
Laser-cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and are currently used in a wide range of luxury vehicles. They are more expensive and require specialized equipment to create them, but they offer an additional layer of security for your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace it quickly and efficiently at a reasonable price if you lose it.
You might need to have the transponder chip installed in your key, based on the car you own. You cannot do this by yourself, and dealerships charge a lot to do it. A reputable locksmith is likely to be able program your transponder for you even though they may not have the same degree of expertise as your local dealer.
Most newer cars come with keys laser-cut that have transponder chips that provide an extra layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system and permit it to verify that the key is genuine before starting the engine. Even if the person who stole it is capable of stealing and replicating the key, they won't be able to start the car as the engine will not start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips can be found in nearly all vehicles built in the past 20 years. These are radio transmitters that stop your car from being started without the right keys. This was a major advancement in the fight against car theft, as thieves had come up with a variety of methods to start cars with brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system entirely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this because it only allowed the car to turn on for a short amount of time. It also verified that there was a key present.
A normal transponder will appear like a key made of steel with a top made of plastic. This plastic top houses the transponder which sends an alert to your car whenever the key is close enough. The signal is an electronic serial number that is identical to the transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible then you'll be in a position to operate your vehicle. This is among the most effective methods of anti-theft technology manufacturers of cars have implemented because it has made car theft nearly impossible for those who do not have a valid key.
There are keys cut of types of transponder keys that can be used in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some keys have an embedded transponder in the head. Others have a remote key fob which includes the key transponder. The key fobs will often feature buttons which allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle or set the alarm and many other functions.
A locksmith can help get you a new transponder for your vehicle and can even programme it if required. This process is usually fairly straightforward and only requires a few steps. The first step is that the new key will need to be cut with the standard metal key cutter, which can be done at any auto retailer. Then, the blank transponder key will need to be programmed for your specific vehicle by a professional auto locksmith. The programming process usually takes only 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have the remote keyless entry system that requires a fob. The key fob sends the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors, or start the motor. If it's equipped, it can also unlock the boot.
Keep in mind that a car fob is different from the conventional keys you've got on your keychain. It's a complicated piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. You should never try to cut your key fob on your own. It's best to leave cutting and programming of your fobs to professionals.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some feature a key that folds inside it, much like a switchblade. This lets the fob become smaller and compact when not being used. There are fobs without the foldable feature, which look like normal-sized keys.
It can be difficult to replace your key fob when you lose it. It may require special tools or a trip to the dealer. Often, the dealer can only provide a fob that works with your specific model. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your car's security system.
Fortunately, the process of getting the new key fob you want is relatively simple when you have the right information. You will have to know your car's year, make 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 that you have the correct tools and equipment. You'll have to enter a special mode that could involve turning the ignition off and on at a specific number of times, triggering certain buttons or a combination of both. Some manufacturers might even employ an illuminated light or sound to signal the switch to programming mode.
Once you've gathered the required items, you can take 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 at a much more reasonable price than the dealership. We are open later than the dealership, so you won't need to rush to work in order to get your keyfob programed and cut.