Where to Get Car Key Cut
Professionally cut car keys for professional services ensure a smooth start, and can prevent potential problems. They employ advanced equipment to ensure precision and provide warranties on their services.
The majority of modern cars require a special transponder chip inside their key fob to work correctly. These are highly sophisticated electronic components that can only be programmed by a dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys or the key fob is damaged the first thing you think of is be to go to your local dealer. In the end, the dealership is the official dealer for your car and will be able provide you with the replacement key. However, you may be surprised to find out the cost of their services could be. There are other ways to save money on key replacements.
While car dealers offer a wide selection of keys for cars and key fobs, they often charge more than other outlets. They might not be able make the type of key you require. For instance, certain newer cars require a special laser cut key that requires specialized equipment to originate duplicates, program, and create each one. This is a service that most locksmiths don't offer and have to outsource.
Home improvement stores that offer key-making services are an excellent alternative than dealerships. Hardware stores usually carry a wide variety of blanks that can be used to create different kinds of keys for cars, which means they can meet all requirements. In addition, they typically have cheaper prices than the dealership.
In addition to offering a wide assortment of blank keys for cars, home improvement stores also have the 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 keys. They can also reprogram your fobs when required.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the tools to create transponder car keys and key fobs as well standard house keys. You'll need to contact them ahead if you'd like these keys made.
key cutting car -box stores, like Rite Aid, offer key-making services. In fact, you can get an auto key or key fob made 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. key cutting services is only possible in the event that the original key has a microchip that can be programmed into the computer system of the vehicle.
Locksmiths
There's never a good moment to lose your car keys. However, if you do, an emergency locksmith is the best choice to have your keys cut and replaced in the shortest time possible. Many automotive locksmiths provide 24/7 support to assist you in times of need it. They can cut any kind of key from standard to transponder and they also manage VAT systems for modern automobiles.
Most AutoZone locations are able to change your car key. The process is fairly straightforward: A staff member selects the correct key blank based upon your year, make and model. A machine then traces the original contours on the current key. This ensures that your replacement key is perfectly. If your key is equipped with a computer chip built into the fob, it will need to be programmed.
Certain auto locksmiths can reprogram your keys for less than a dealership. They can also offer a quicker turnaround, which is great for those in need of assistance in a hurry. However, an outside locksmith may not be able to deal with the most modern vehicles, like the ones that have smart keys.
The average car key costs about $10 to cut at Walmart and is therefore more affordable for those who just need an original key duplicated. Be aware that keys made using machines are less likely than hand-made keys to last and get older. If you wish to have your spare keys last for a long time, it's better to enlist the help of an emergency locksmith.
Some modern cars have an electronic key that activates the car's proximity sensors. They are the most convenient and sought-after keys, however they are also the hardest to duplicate if you do not have the original. The majority of locksmiths for cars can duplicate a smart key however, you'll need proof of ownership like the registration title, 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
Key-by-VIN online providers are a convenient alternative to go to a locksmith or dealership. These companies make an alternative car key that is a factory original using the VIN number. They cost less than a dealer or locksmith however, you'll need an automotive technician to connect the key to your car.
Most cars built between 1990 and on have a special transponder chip in the key that needs to be programmed to the vehicle to function. This is why it's crucial to use a car's keys code instead of the VIN when you request a key from a key-by-VIN provider online. If you are using the VIN to purchase keys, it's likely that your key won't work if the door lock or ignition have ever been changed.
Be aware that even though key-by-VIN online providers can cut keys, they are not able to send you a programmed key for your car. This will still require an auto technician, so ensure you add this cost into your budget.
The clear winners when it comes to precision are locksmiths, dealers and online key-by-VIN suppliers. They all cut their keys with code, which is what gives you a genuine OEM-cut key. Big box stores however employ an automated machine to cut their keys. This machine can become less precise over time and result in a key that doesn't perform as it should.
A key bought online is more expensive than one obtained from a reputable dealer or locksmith. Most online resellers are sourced from outside the country and employ low quality parts and construction methods. You won't receive any support or warranty if the key fails.
It is vital to keep an inventory of transponders, blank keys and remotes for each type of vehicle you work with. To save yourself time and money, you can utilize OEM manufacturer websites to find keys for cars by VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
In this day and age of online shopping, you might think that there is no reason to leave the comfort of your home. However it is true that not all shopping experiences are made to be the same. Some, like having your car key cut are better done in person than by clicking on a mouse. There are a lot of big box stores that are equipped and know how to get your key copied properly. They may not be up to the standard of a locksmith or key-by-VIN service online, but they are convenient and cost-effective.
An auto parts store is the most popular location to have your key cut. This is a simple and quick process if you have a standard, un-chipped key. The stores have key cutting machines that can replicate the contours of your key in a matter of minutes.
Ace Hardware is a popular chain store. These chains have key cutting machines and can duplicate most types. However, if you own an older key that is part of a key fob, or is equipped with a chip the chain won't be able to assist you.
Certain of the more specialist stores, such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot across the country are able to make duplicates of keys with chips. You should contact your local store to inquire if it can make keys like this before you make your purchase.
If you own a security key, you will want to visit your nearest AutoZone location. These stores have the knowledge, technology, and tools to duplicate high-security keys such as those that are incorporated into key fobs. A staff member will select the proper key blank for your year, model, and model and use a key cutting machine to copy the original contours of your current key. This will take a few more minutes than a standard key, but it will give you the assurance that your key is safe if it gets lost or stolen.