Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional car key cutting service ensures the smoothest start and helps avoid potential issues. They use advanced machines to ensure precision and offer warranties for their services.
Most modern cars require a special transponder chip within their key fobs to function effectively. These are highly sophisticated electronic components that can only be programmed by a dealer or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thing you think of is to visit your dealer in case you lose your key or your key fob is damaged. After all, the dealership is the official dealer for your car and they will be able provide you with the replacement key. You may be surprised by the cost these services can be. There are other ways to save money on important replacements.
Car dealerships can offer a large selection of car keys, but they are more expensive. Plus, they may not be able to make the exact type of key you require. For instance, some modern cars require a special laser cut key that requires special equipment to create duplicates, create, and program each one. The majority of locksmiths do not provide this service, and they must outsource it to a third party.
car keys cut and programmed to the dealership is a home improvement store that provides key-making services. Most hardware stores carry many blanks for different kinds of car keys, which means they can usually accommodate most needs. These stores are usually cheaper than dealerships.
In addition to providing a wide variety of blank keys for cars, home improvement stores also have the equipment and expertise to make replacement keys and key fobs. They have the ability to create laser-cut keys, which are much harder to copy than traditional metal keys. They can also help change the fobs you have, in the event that it is necessary.
Auto parts stores such as 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, not all locations can make these keys, so it is best to make a call prior to visiting a specific location.
Some big-box stores, like Rite Aid, also have key-making services. In fact, you can get keys for your car or a key fob for less than $15 at many locations! These stores offer a wide variety of blanks, and will cut and program your key for you. This is only possible if the original key has a chip within it and can be programmed by the vehicle's system.
Locksmiths
There's never a great time to lose your car keys. However, if you need to replace them require an emergency locksmith, they're the best option to get your keys replaced and cut as fast as you can. In many areas automotive locksmiths are available 24 hour service to help out in a pinch. They can cut any kind of key from transponder to standard, and they also manage VAT systems for modern vehicles.
The majority of AutoZone locations are able to replace your car key. The process is quite easy: an associate picks the appropriate key blank according to your year, make, and model, then uses a machine to trace the original contours of your current key. This ensures that the replacement key will fit perfectly. If your key is equipped with an embedded computer chip, the fob, it will need to be programmed.
Some auto locksmiths can reprogram your keys for less than a dealership. They'll also often offer a faster turnaround and are a great option for those in a rush. A locksmith from outside may not be able to work on the latest vehicles, such as ones with smart keys.
The average car key is $10 to cut at Walmart and is therefore more affordable when you need just a traditional key duplicated. Remember 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 a long time it's a better idea to enlist the services of a professional emergency locksmith.
Certain cars today have a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. These are the most practical and well-liked keys, but also the hardest to duplicate if you do not have the original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart-key but you'll need proof of ownership such as a registration or title or purchase documentation. You may also be required to pay for the tow truck to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you're unable to get to the dealership or a locksmith, online key-by-VIN providers offer a simple way to make a spare car key. These companies create an alternative car key that is a factory original with the VIN number. These companies charge less than an authorized locksmith or dealer but you'll require an automotive technician in order to connect the key.
Most cars made from 1990 onwards include a transponder chip which must be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to function. This is why it's important to use a car key code instead of the VIN when you request a key from an online key-by-VIN supplier. If you are using the VIN to request a key, it is likely that your key will not work in the event that the door locks or ignition have 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 vehicle. This will still require an auto technician, so ensure you factor this cost into your budget.
The most reliable when it comes to precision are dealers, locksmiths and online key-by-VIN providers. They cut their keys using code, which gives you a genuine OEM-cut key. However the big box stores cut their keys using an automatic machine that can be less precise over time and may result in a key that does not perform as expected.
The process of obtaining a key using VIN from a reliable locksmith or dealer will be much cheaper than ordering one from a website. The majority of online resellers come from overseas and make use of low-quality parts and construction methods. Furthermore, you will not get any kind of warranty or support if something goes wrong with the key.
Keeping a supply of remotes, keys, and transponders available for every model of car you service is essential. You can save time and money by utilizing the OEM websites of manufacturers to locate car key codes that are based on VIN or the make and model.
Big Box Stores
In this day and age of online shopping, you might think that you have no reason to leave the comfort of your home. However, not all shopping experiences are the same. Some, like getting your car key cut are better done in person rather than using the mouse. A lot of big box stores have the tools and expertise to cut your key. These stores may not be up to the standard of a locksmith or key-by-VIN provider, but they are convenient and cost-effective.
One of the most popular locations to get your key cut is an auto parts store. This is a straightforward and quick procedure if you are using a standard, non-chipped key. The stores have key cutting machines which can duplicate the contours of your existing key in just a few minutes.
Another option is to go to an upscale chain store for hardware like Ace Hardware. These chains have key cutting machines and can duplicate all kinds of keys. However, 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.
A few of the more specialized hardware stores such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability to do key copies based on chip technology. However, you should talk ahead to the store closest to you and ask if they can do this kind of key for you before you go to the store.
If you own a security key, you'll need to visit your nearest AutoZone location. These stores have the tools, expertise and technology to duplicate most types of high-security keys including those integrated into a key fob. A staff member will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use an instrument to cut keys to duplicate the original contours of the current key. This will take a bit longer than a standard one, but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your keys are secure in the event that it is lost or stolen.