Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional service for cutting car keys ensures the smoothest start and helps avoid possible issues. They use advanced machines to ensure precision and offer warranties on their services.
For the majority of modern cars, a transponder chip is required in the key fob. These are advanced electronic components that can only be programmed by a dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car key or the fob for your key breaks, your first thought might be to go to your auto dealer. The dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle, therefore they should have the ability to give you an additional key. However, you may be shocked to learn how expensive their services can be. Luckily, there are many other options to help you save money on your key replacement.
While car dealerships offer an extensive selection of car keys and key fobs, they often charge higher prices than other outlets. Additionally, they may not be able make the exact type of key you require. Some newer cars need laser-cut keys that requires specialized equipment to duplicate, program, and create. This is a service locksmiths generally don't provide and therefore must outsource.
An alternative to the dealership is a home improvement store that offers key-making services. Most hardware stores have an array of blanks for various types of car keys, which means they are able to meet the majority of needs. Additionally, these stores usually have cheaper prices than dealerships.
In addition to providing a wide range of car key blanks home improvement stores also have equipment and expertise to make replacement keys and key fobs. They can create laser-cut keys that are more difficult to duplicate than traditional metal ones. They can also reprogram your fobs if needed.
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. You'll need to contact them ahead if you'd like to have these keys made.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, offer key-making services. In fact, you can have a car key or key fob for less than $15 in most locations! These stores offer a wide variety of blanks available and can even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible when the original key is equipped with a microchip and can be programmed into the computer system of the vehicle.
Locksmiths
It's not a good idea to lose your car key. However, if you have to, an emergency locksmith is the best option to have your keys cut and replaced as quickly as possible. In many areas, automotive locksmiths offer 24/7 service to help you out in a bind. They can cut any type of key, including transponder keys as well as regular keys. They also manage VAT systems on newer automobiles.
The majority of AutoZone stores will replace your car keys. The procedure is quite simple: A representative selects the correct key blank based upon your year, make, and model. A machine then traces the original contours of the current key. This ensures that your new key will be perfectly. If the key you are replacing has chip embedded in the fob, though, it will likely require programming using the computer in your vehicle.
Some auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key at an affordable price than a dealership. They also provide faster turnaround times which is great if you are in need of assistance in a hurry. However, a locksmith outside may not be able to operate on the most sophisticated vehicles, like those with smart keys.
Walmart charges $10 on average for cutting a car key. This is a cheaper alternative if you require a duplicate key. Remember that keys made using machines are less likely than hand-made keys to last, and they will get older. If you want your spare keys to last a long time, it's best to enlist the help of an emergency locksmith.
Certain modern cars have a smart key which activates the proximity sensors. They're the most popular and convenient keys, but they're also the hardest to replace in the event that you don't have the original. Locksmiths in the automotive industry can duplicate a smart key, but you'll need to bring evidence of ownership, such as registration, title, or purchase paperwork. You may also be required to pay for a tow truck to take your car back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you can't get to the dealership or a locksmith, online key-by VIN providers offer a simple method of making an extra car key. These businesses use the VIN number to make a replacement key that's an original factory key. These companies charge less than an authorized locksmith or dealer but you'll require an automotive technician in order to pair the key.
Most cars built from 1990 onwards come with a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to work. This is the reason it's essential 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 your ignition has ever been replaced or the door locks have been changed.
It's also important to keep in mind that, despite the fact that online key-by VIN providers can cut keys, they can't give you a key programmed to your car. You'll still require an auto technician to complete this task, so be sure to add this cost into your budget when you choose this option.
The most obvious winners when it comes to accuracy are locksmiths, dealers, and online key-by VIN suppliers. All of them cut keys with codes, resulting in a genuine OEM key. Big box stores however employ an automated machine to cut their keys. The machine may become less precise over time and could result in a key that does not work properly.
Getting a key by VIN from a reliable dealer or locksmith will also be much cheaper than ordering one from a website. The majority of online resellers come from overseas and use poor quality components and construction methods. In addition, you won't receive any type of warranty or support if something goes wrong with the key.
Keeping a supply of remotes, keys, and transponders on hand for every model of car you service is a necessity. To save yourself time and money, you can use the manufacturers' OEM websites to search for car key codes using VIN or model or make.
Big Box Stores
Shopping online is so convenient that you may not need to leave your home. However it is true that not all shopping experiences are all created to be the same. Some, like having your car key cut, are much better done in person than via a mouse. A lot of big box stores have the equipment and know-how to cut your key. Although these stores might not be as efficient as locksmiths or an online key-by-VIN provider, they do have the advantage of being easy and affordable.
A car parts store is the most popular place to have your key cut. It is a simple and quick procedure if you have a standard, non-chipped key. auto key cutting machine of these stores have key cutting machines that will replicate the contours of your current key in a matter of 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 types 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 help.
Some of the more specialized stores, such as Menards in Midwest and Home Depot across the country can create copies of keys that have chips. However, you should call ahead to your local store to see whether they can create this type of key for you before you head over.
It is recommended to visit your local AutoZone if you have an item with high security. They have the expertise, technology, and tools to duplicate high-security keys such as those that are integrated into key fobs. An associate will pick the proper key blank for your year, make, and model and use the key cutting machine to duplicate the original contours of the current key. This process can take longer than a standard key, but will give you peace of mind that your key will be secure in the event that it is stolen or lost.