Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional car key cutting service ensures an easy start and avoids potential issues. They use advanced machines that guarantee precision and offer warranties on their services.
For most modern cars it is a transponder chip that is required on the key fob. These are sophisticated electronic devices that need to by programmed by a dealership or a locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thought you might have is to visit your dealer if you lose your key or your key fob breaks. In the end, the dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle and are likely to be able to provide you with the replacement key. However, you might be surprised by how expensive their services can be. There are other ways to save money on essential replacements.
Although car dealerships have an extensive selection of car keys and key fobs, they often charge more than other retailers. Additionally, they may not be able to make the type of key you want. Some newer cars need a laser-cut key that requires specialized equipment to duplicate programs, cut, and create. This is a service locksmiths generally don't provide and therefore must outsource.
A better alternative to the dealership is a home improvement store that can provide key-making services. Most hardware stores have an array of blanks for various types of car keys, so they can usually accommodate most requirements. In addition, they typically offer lower costs than dealerships.
In addition to offering a broad variety 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 assist you to modify your fobs should you require it.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA can also produce replacement car keys. They have the tools to make standard house keys, transponder keys and key fobs. You'll need to contact them ahead if you want these keys made.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, offer key-making services. You can even have a key fob or car key made for less than 15 dollars in most stores! These stores have a huge variety of blanks available and can even cut and program the key for you. However, this is only possible if your original key has a chip in it that is programmed with the vehicle's system.
Locksmiths
There's never a good time to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys, the best thing to do is to call an emergency locksmith. They'll be able to quickly cut and replace your keys. In many places, automotive locksmiths offer 24 hour service to help out in a bind. They can cut any key, which includes transponder keys as well as regular keys. They also handle VAT systems on modern automobiles.
Most AutoZone stores can repair or replace your car keys. The process is quite simple: an associate selects the correct key blank according to your year, make, and model Then, a machine is used to trace the original contours of your current key. This ensures that your replacement key is perfectly. If your key has an embedded computer chip inside the fob it will need to be programmed.
Some auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key for less than a dealership. They'll also often provide faster turnaround times which makes them a good option for those in a rush. However, an outside locksmith may not be able deal with the most modern automobiles, like ones with smart keys.
The average car key costs about $10 to cut at Walmart, so it's a more affordable option for those who just need an original key duplicated. It's important to remember that keys made with machines are less likely to last for long and will become weathered over time. It's best to hire an emergency locksmith to ensure that your spare keys last many years.
Certain modern cars have a smart key which activates the proximity sensors. These are the most convenient and well-liked keys, but they are also the most difficult to duplicate if you do not have the original. Most automotive locksmiths will duplicate a smart-key but you'll need evidence of ownership, like a registration or title or purchase documentation. You may need to pay a tow truck cost to return your car to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Online key-by VIN suppliers are a convenient alternative for those who are unable to get to a locksmith or dealer. These companies utilize the VIN number to make keys that are a factory original. They charge less than a dealer or locksmith, but you will require an automotive technician connect the key to your vehicle.
Most cars built between 1990 and upwards have a special transponder chip inside the key that must be programmed to the vehicle to work. This is the reason it's essential to use a car key code instead of the VIN when requesting a key from an online key-by-VIN supplier. If you choose 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 providers can cut your keys, they cannot provide you with a key that's programmed to your vehicle. You will still need an auto technician to accomplish this task, so be sure to factor this additional cost into your overall budget when choosing this option.
Dealers, locksmiths and online key-by VIN suppliers are the clear winners when it comes to accuracy. They all cut their keys using codes, resulting in a genuine OEM key. Big box stores on the other hand utilize an automated machine to cut their keys. This machine can become less precise over time and result in a key that does not perform as it should.
Finding a key with a VIN from a reputable dealer or locksmith will also be cheaper than buying one from a website. Online resellers usually employ low-cost parts and construction techniques and are typically purchased from foreign sources. In addition, you won't receive any type of warranty or support if something happens to the key.
Keeping a supply of keys, remotes and transponders on hand for every car model you service is a necessity. You can save time and money by using the OEM websites of manufacturers to find car key codes that are based on VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
Shopping online is so convenient, you may not need to leave your home. However there are many different shopping experiences that are all created to be the same. Certain things, such as getting your car key cut, are more effective in person than via the mouse. There are many big box stores that are equipped and know how to copy your key properly. They might not be up to the standard of a locksmith or key-by-VIN service online but they are convenient and affordable.
One of the most common locations to get your key cut is an auto parts store. If you own a standard key that does not have chip it's a quick and easy process. car keys cutting and programming of these stores have key cutting machines that will replicate the contours of your existing key in just a few minutes.
Ace Hardware is a popular chain store. These chains have key cutting machines and can duplicate most types. They are unable to assist you in the event that your key is part of a fob or is chips.
A few of the more specialist hardware stores, like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability of doing key copies based on chip technology. However, you should call ahead to your local store and see if they can do this type of key before you go to the store.
If you own a high-security key, you'll want to visit your local AutoZone location. They have the expertise, technology, and tools to duplicate high-security keys including those that are integrated into key fobs. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, model the model, and make a key cutting machine to copy the contours of the current key. This process will take a little longer than a standard key but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your keys are secure in the event that it is lost or stolen.