Where to Get Car Key Cut
Professional car key cutting services guarantee a smooth start and can prevent potential problems. They make use of advanced technology to ensure precision and offer warranties for their services.
For modern vehicles it is a transponder chip that is required in the key fob. These are highly sophisticated electronic components that can only be programmed by the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thought you might have is to visit your dealer if you lose your key or if your key fob is damaged. The dealership is the official dealer of your vehicle, so they should be able to give you an additional key. However, you might be surprised by how expensive their services can be. There are other ways to save money on essential replacements.
Car dealerships can offer a large selection of keys for cars, but they charge higher prices. They might not be able to create your specific type of key. For instance, certain newer automobiles require a laser cut key that requires special equipment to create, duplicate, and program each one. Most locksmiths do not offer this service and have to outsource it.
A better alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that can provide key-making services. The majority of hardware stores stock an array of blanks for different kinds of car keys, so they usually can meet most requirements. Additionally, these stores usually have lower prices than the dealership.
Home improvement stores have a variety of keys for cars, but they also have the experience and tools to create keys and key fobs that are replacements. They can make laser-cut keys, which are much harder to copy than traditional keys made of metal. They can also reprogram your fobs when required.
Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA can also make replacement car keys. They have the necessary equipment to create standard house keys, transponder keys, and key fobs. However there are some locations that don't make these keys, so you'll need to make a call prior to visiting a particular location.
Some big box stores, like Rite Aid, also have key-making services. You can also get a key fob or car key for less than $15 in most stores! These stores have a large selection of blanks, and can cut and program your key for you. However, this is only possible if your original key has a chip within it and can be programmed by the vehicle's system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea to lose your car key. But if you do need a locksmith in an emergency, an emergency locksmith is the best choice to have your keys replaced and cut as fast as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry offer 24/7 service in order to assist you whenever you require it. They can cut any key, including transponder keys as well as regular keys. They also handle VAT systems on newer cars.
Most AutoZone locations are able to change your car key. The process is fairly simple: An associate selects the right key blank based on your year, make, and model. A machine then traces the original contours of your current key. This ensures that your replacement key is perfectly. If your key is equipped with a computer chip built into the fob, it needs to be programmed.
Some auto locksmiths can reprogram your keys at less than a dealership. They'll often also offer a faster turnaround which makes them a good choice if you're in a rush. A locksmith from outside might not be able to work on the latest cars, for instance ones with smart keys.
Walmart costs $10 on average to cut a car key. This is a less expensive option if you only need a traditional duplicate key. Be aware that keys made with machines are less likely than hand-made ones to last and will be damaged over time. It is recommended to hire an emergency locksmith if you want to ensure that your spare keys last many years.
Certain cars today have a smart key which activates the proximity sensors. These are the most sought-after and convenient keys, but they're also the hardest to replace in the event that you don't have the original. The majority of locksmiths for cars can duplicate a smart-key, but you'll need to bring evidence of ownership, such as registration, title, or purchase papers. You may have to pay a tow truck fee to return your car to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you're unable to get to the dealership or a locksmith, online key-by-VIN suppliers provide a quick and easy method of making a spare car key. They create keys for replacement that is a factory original with the VIN number. Get the facts charge less than a locksmith or dealer but you'll need an automotive technician to pair the key with your car.
The majority of cars manufactured from 1990 and upwards have a special transponder chip in the key that needs to be programmed into the vehicle to work. This is why it's crucial to use a car's key code instead of the VIN when you request a key from an online supplier of key-by-VIN. If you decide to use the VIN it's possible that the key won't work if the ignition has ever been changed or your door locks have been changed.
It's also important to note that, even though online key-by-VIN suppliers can cut your keys, they cannot give you a key programmed to your car. This process will require an auto technician, so ensure you include this cost in your budget.
Locksmiths, dealers, and online key-by-VIN providers are the most reliable in terms of accuracy. They cut their keys using code, which means you get the genuine OEM cut key. In contrast, big box stores only cut their keys using an automatic machine that can be less precise over time, and can result in a key that doesn't perform as expected.
A key ordered online is more expensive than one obtained from a reliable locksmith or dealer. Online resellers usually employ low-cost parts and techniques for construction and are often purchased from foreign sources. In addition, you won't receive any kind of warranty or support if something happens to the key.
It is essential to have an inventory of transponders, keys, blank keys and remotes for every model of vehicle you work with. To save time and money, you can make use of OEM manufacturers' websites to find car key codes using VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
Shopping online is so convenient, you might not wish to leave your house. There are many different shopping experiences that are exactly the same. Certain things, such as getting your car keys cut are much better done in person than via on a mouse. A lot of big box stores have the equipment and know-how to make your key. While these stores may not be as reliable as locksmiths or an online key-by-VIN supplier, they do offer the benefit of being convenient and affordable.
A car parts store is the most common location to get your key cut. This is a simple and quick procedure if you are using a standard, non-chipped key. The stores have key cutting machines which can copy the contours from your current key in just a few minutes.
Another option is to go to the chain hardware store, like Ace Hardware. These chains also have key cutting machines and they are able to copy all kinds of keys. If you own modern keys that are part of a key fob or is equipped with a chip, these stores will not be able to assist you.
Some of the more specialized hardware stores like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the ability to make chip-related key copies. You should contact your local store to see if it can make keys like this before you make your purchase.
If you own a security key, you'll want to visit your nearest AutoZone location. They have the tools, know-how and technology to duplicate all types of high-security keys, including those that are integrated into key fobs. An associate will select the right key blank for the year, make and model of your vehicle and then use a key cutting machine to duplicate the original contours. This process will take more time than a standard one, but will ensure that your key is safe in the event that it is stolen or lost.