Where to Get Car Key Cut
Professionally cut car keys for professional services guarantee a smooth start and can prevent potential problems. They employ advanced equipment that ensure precision and offer warranties on their services.
The majority of modern automobiles require a transponder chip inside their key fobs to function properly. These are highly sophisticated electronic devices that can only by programmed by a dealer or auto locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys or the key fob is damaged, your first thought might be to visit your auto dealer. After all, the dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle and will be able give you a replacement key. However, you could be surprised to find out the cost of their services could be. There are plenty of other options that can save you money on your key replacement.
While car dealerships offer a wide selection of car keys and key fobs but they usually have higher prices than other stores. In addition, they might not be able to make the type of key you want. Certain cars of recent years require laser-cut keys, which requires special equipment to duplicate programming, create, and duplicate. Most locksmiths do not offer this service and have to outsource it to a third party.
A better alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that offers key-making services. Most hardware stores carry an array of blanks for different kinds of car keys, which means they usually can meet most needs. They are generally less expensive than dealerships.
In addition to providing a wide variety of blank keys for cars, home improvement stores also have the tools and experience to make replacement keys and key fobs. They have the ability to create laser-cut keys that are much harder to copy than traditional keys made of metal. They can also help you change the fobs you have, should you require it.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA can also make replacement car keys. They have the equipment to make standard house keys, transponder keys and key fobs. However, not all locations can make these keys, so you'll have to call ahead before visiting a particular location.
Some big-box stores, such as 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 have a huge selection of blanks and can even cut and program the key for you. But, this is only possible if the original key has a chip inside it and can be programmed by the vehicle's system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea lose your car keys. If you need to replace them require an emergency locksmith, they're the best option to get your keys replaced and cut as quickly as possible. In many places, automotive locksmiths offer 24/7 assistance to help out when you're in a pinch. They can cut any type of key, from standard to transponder and they can also handle VAT systems for newer vehicles.
The majority of AutoZone stores will replace your car keys. motorcycle key cutting is quite simple: An associate selects the right key blank based upon the year, make and model. A machine then trace the original contours on the current key. This ensures that your replacement key fits perfectly. If your key is equipped with an embedded computer chip, the fob, it will need to be programmed.
Certain auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key at an affordable price than the dealership. They also usually offer a faster turnaround and are a great option if you're in a hurry. However, an outside locksmith may not be able deal with the most modern automobiles, like those with smart keys.
Walmart costs $10 on average to cut a car key. This is a cheaper option if you only need a traditional duplicate key. It's important to keep in mind, though, that keys made by machines are less likely to last and will deteriorate over time. It is best to employ an emergency locksmith if you want to make sure your spare keys last an extended period of time.
Certain cars today have a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. These are the most practical and popular keys, but also the hardest to duplicate if you do not have the original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart-key, however, you'll need proof of ownership like the registration title, title, or purchase documents. You may also have to pay for a tow truck to take your vehicle back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Key-by-VIN providers online can be a good alternative for those who are unable to get to a dealership or locksmith. These businesses utilize the VIN number to create keys that are the original from the factory. They charge less than a dealer or locksmith however, you'll require an automotive technician pair the key with your vehicle.
Most cars built from 1990 onwards have a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to function. This is why it's important 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 request keys, it's likely that your key won't work in the event that the ignition or door locks were ever changed.
It's also important to remember that, despite the fact that online key-by VIN providers can cut keys, they cannot provide you with a key that's programmed to your car. You will still need an auto technician for this task, so be sure to add this cost into your budget when deciding on this option.
Dealers, locksmiths and online key-by-VIN suppliers are the clear winners when it comes to accuracy. They all cut their keys with codes, resulting in an authentic OEM key. Big box stores on the other hand, only use an automatic machine to cut their keys. This machine can become less precise over time, resulting in a key which doesn't perform as it should.
The process of obtaining a key using VIN from a reliable locksmith or dealer will be much cheaper than ordering one online. Online resellers usually use cheap parts and techniques for construction and are typically procured from overseas. You won't receive any support or warranty in the event that the key breaks.
Maintaining a supply of keys, remotes and transponders on hand for every car model you service is essential. You can save time and money by utilizing the OEM websites of manufacturers to find keys for cars that are based on VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
Online shopping is so convenient that you may not even wish to leave your house. There are many different shopping experiences that are the same. Some, like getting your car key cut are better done in person than by clicking the mouse. Many big box stores have the tools and expertise to cut your key. Although these stores might not be as efficient as locksmiths or an online key-by-VIN supplier, they do offer the benefit of being affordable and convenient.
An auto parts store is the most common location to have your key cut. If you own a standard key that does not include a chip it's a simple and simple process. These stores usually have key cutting machines that replicate the contours of your current key within a few minutes.
Another option is to go to an upscale chain store for hardware such as Ace Hardware. These chains also have key cutting machines, and they are able to copy all kinds of keys. If you own an older key that is part of a key fob or has a chip in it the chain won't be able to assist.
A few of the more specialized hardware stores, such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability of doing chip-related key copies. But, you must call ahead to your local store to see whether they can make this type of key for you before you visit.
If you own a high-security key, you will want to visit your local AutoZone location. They have the experience, technology, and tools to duplicate high-security keys such as those that are incorporated into key fobs. An associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make the model, and make the key cutting machine to duplicate the original contours of the current key. This process will take a little longer than a standard key, but it will give you peace of mind that your key is safe if it gets lost or stolen.