Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting car keys requires more than just bent metal. It's a technique that provides security and convenience as well as peace of mind for car owners.
Bring see this page existing key to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key by using the proper key cutting method for your car's make and model. The process of cutting keys takes just about a minute and is less expensive than buying the new car key from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest kind of car key. They have a pattern of ridges and grooves cut into them that align with the pin settings in the lock to open it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, but a locksmith with the proper tools can make copies that are more durable and can be used inside your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can also be capable of making laser-cut keys. They are more secure than mechanical keys because they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it difficult to make copies, and if someone tries to make use of a grinder to the key, they will likely leave behind a lot of metal scraps that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s as an additional layer of security. These keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key that communicates with your car to let it know it is authentic. If the chip in your car's key is not matched, your car won't start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the latest technology in car keys. These are the result of combining a traditional mechanical key and a remote control. You can unlock and start your vehicle with this key and operate it via remote. A mobile auto locksmith can design smart keys for your vehicle in minutes using the latest technology.
Hardware stores are not the best option to purchase a replacement mechanical key for damaged or lost keys. Most hardware stores do not have the tools or highly-trained professionals to make keys that work inside your vehicle. You'll save money as well as be more secure if you let the making of the key to a professional.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to make than standard key blanks, but offer an additional layer of security for your car. Lasers are used to carve keys from the middle, allowing them to be inserted into the lock at either end, and work. They also have a unique design and are more difficult to duplicate.
The thicker shank with fewer grooves will help you distinguish a laser-cut from a bladed traditional key. This makes it difficult for thieves to steal your car since the key is more difficult to turn. These keys are also less likely to become stuck in the lock because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert the laser-cut keys in your lock, a unique signal is sent to the car's receiver. This lets the car know it's the correct key, and it can be used to start. If a thief does manage to obtain an unauthorized copy of your key, the vehicle's transmitter will not be able to recognize it and not start.
Laser-cut keys have been used in luxury vehicles since the 1990s. They are more expensive to make than regular key blanks and require specialized equipment, but they provide an extra layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace yours quickly and easily at a reasonable cost if you lose it.
You may need to have the transponder chip programmed in your key based on the vehicle you drive. This isn't something that you can do by yourself, and most car dealerships will charge an amount of money to do it for you. A reliable locksmith will be able to program your transponder on your behalf even though they may not have the same degree of expertise as your local dealer.
Most newer cars 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 making the motor start. Even if the thief is able to steal and duplicate the key, they will not be able to start the car since the engine won't start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Most cars built in the past 20 years or so will have a transponder chip inside of it. These are radio transmitters that prevent your car from being started without the correct keys. This was a major advancement in the fight against car theft since thieves had devised a variety of ways to start cars using brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch with flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip solved all of that as it would only allow the car to turn on for a short time while also registering that there was a valid key in the ignition.
A standard transponder can look like a key made of metal with a top made of plastic. The plastic top houses the actual transponder which will send a signal to your car whenever the key is in close proximity. The signal is an electronic serial number which is matched to the transponder inside your car. If the signals match your car's system, 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 since it has made theft of cars nearly impossible for anyone who doesn't possess a valid key.
Based on the model, there are different types of transponder key that are available. Certain keys come with a transponder chip in the head. Some also have an accessory fob that houses the transponder chip of the key. Key fobs typically come with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help get you a new transponder for your vehicle and can even program it if needed. The process is typically simple and requires only a few simple steps. The first step is that the new key needs to be cut with a regular metal key cutter, which can usually be done at any automotive retailer. The blank transponder keys will then have to be programmed by an expert locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming typically takes only 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars come with a remote keyless system that requires a fob. The fob's key sends an electronic signal to the vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. If it is equipped, it will also open the boot.
Keep in mind that the 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 in order to work with your vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob on your own. It is always advisable to bring your key fob to an expert for cutting and programming.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some come with keys that fold inside it, similar to the switchblade. This reduces the size of the fob and allows it to be tucked away when it's not in use. You can also find fobs that look more like an ordinary key, but without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob, it can be a real trouble to obtain an alternative. It may require special tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers can often only provide the key fob that is compatible with the model you have. This is because the dealer has the technology experience to ensure that the replacement fob works with your car's security system.
The process of finding a replacement key fob can be fairly simple if you have the correct details. To begin, you'll need to know the year, model and year of your car. Bring an extra key that works.
Make sure you have the required 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 will need to enter a particular mode that might involve switching the ignition off and on at a specific number of times, pressing specific buttons or any combination of these. Some manufacturers may even use an illuminated light or sound to signal the switch to programming mode.
Once you've collected the necessary materials, you can bring your key fob to your 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 the lower cost than the dealership. Most importantly, we stay open longer than the dealership so you don't have to rush off to cut your key fob and programmed.