Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional service for cutting car keys ensures an easy start and avoids any potential problems. They employ advanced equipment to guarantee precision and offer warranties for their services.
Modern automobiles require a transponder chip within their key fobs to function 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 breaks the first thing you think of is be to visit your auto dealer. After all, the dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle and they should be able to offer you a replacement key. You may be shocked by the cost these services can be. There are other ways to save money on key replacements.
Although car dealerships have a wide selection of keys for cars and key fobs but they usually charge more than other outlets. They may also not be able to create your particular type of key. For instance, some modern automobiles require a laser cut key that requires special equipment to make, duplicate, and program each one. This is a service most locksmiths don't offer and must outsource.
A better alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that offers key-making services. Hardware stores typically have an array of blanks to make different types of keys for cars, so they can meet all requirements. Moreover, these stores typically have cheaper prices than the dealership.
In addition to offering a wide range of car key blanks home improvement stores also have the tools and expertise to create 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 required.
Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the tools to make standard house keys, transponder keys, and key fobs. However there are some locations that don't make these keys, so you'll need to call ahead before visiting a specific location.
Some big-box stores, such as 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 most locations! These stores have a large variety of blanks, and can cut and program your key for you. This is only possible in the event that the original key has a microchip that can be programmed to the computer system of the vehicle.
Locksmiths
There's never a great time to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys the best thing you can do is to call an emergency locksmith. They'll be able to quickly cut and replace your keys. Many automotive locksmiths provide 24/7 service to assist you in times of need it. They can cut any type of key, including transponder keys as well as standard keys. They also handle VAT systems on modern cars.
Most AutoZone locations have the ability to replace your car keys. car key cutting price is fairly easy: an associate picks the correct key blank based on your year and make, as well as the model Then, a machine is used to trace the original contours of your current key. This ensures that your replacement key will fit perfectly. If your key has a chip integrated into the fob, it will most likely require programming with the computer in your vehicle.
Some auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key at an affordable price than the dealership. They'll also often provide faster turnaround times, making them a great option if you're in a hurry. However, a locksmith outside might not be able to deal with the most modern vehicles, like those with smart keys.
The average car key costs $10 to cut at Walmart, so it's more affordable for those who just need an old-fashioned key duplicated. It's important to remember that keys made with machines are less likely to last for long and will become weathered as time passes. It's best to hire an emergency locksmith to make sure your spare keys will last for many years.
Some modern cars come with smart keys that activate the proximity sensors. They're the most popular and practical keys, however they're also the most difficult to replace if you don't have the original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart-key but you'll need evidence of ownership, such as a registration, title or purchase paperwork. You may be required to pay a tow truck fee for returning your vehicle to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you are unable to reach the dealership or locksmith, online key-by-VIN suppliers offer a convenient way to create an extra car key. These companies utilize the VIN number to make an alternative key that is an original factory key. They are less expensive than a locksmith or dealer but you'll require an automotive technician pair the key with your vehicle.
Most cars made from 1990 and later come with a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to function. It is essential to use the car's key code rather than the VIN when purchasing keys online through a key-by-VIN service. If you opt to use the VIN, it's likely that the key won't work if your ignition has ever been changed or your door locks have been changed.
Be aware that even though key-by-VIN online providers can cut keys, they aren't able to send you a programmed key for your vehicle. This task will still require an auto technician, so ensure you factor this cost into your budget.
Locksmiths, dealers, and online key-by-VIN providers are the clear winners in terms of precision. They all cut their keys using codes, resulting in an authentic OEM key. Big box stores on the other hand employ an automated machine to cut their keys. This machine can become less precise over time and could result in a key that doesn't perform as it should.
Finding a key with a VIN from a trusted dealer or locksmith will also be less expensive than purchasing one from a website. Most online resellers source their products from outside the country and employ poor quality components and construction methods. Additionally, you won't receive any type of warranty or support if something goes wrong with the key.
Maintaining a supply of blank keys, remotes and transponders available for every car model you service is essential. You can save time and money by utilizing the OEM websites of manufacturers to locate car key codes based on VIN, model and make.
Big Box Stores
Shopping online is so convenient that you may not need to leave your home. However there are many different shopping experiences that are all created equally. Certain things, like cutting your car keys are best done in person rather than clicking with a mouse. Many big box stores have the necessary equipment and know-how to cut your key. Although these stores might not be as reliable as a locksmith or a web-based key-by-VIN supplier, they do offer the benefit of being affordable and convenient.
One of the most frequent locations to get your key cut is at an auto parts store. This is a simple and quick procedure if have a standard, non-chipped key. These stores usually have key cutting machines that copy the contours of your existing key in just a few minutes.
Ace Hardware is a popular chain store. These chains also have key cutting machines and they can copy most kinds of keys. If you own a modern key that is part of a key fob, or is equipped with a chip, these stores will not be able to help.
Certain of the more specialist stores, like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot across the country are able to make duplicates of keys with chips. You should call your local store to see if it can make keys like this before you make your purchase.
It is recommended to visit your local AutoZone when you have a key with high security. These stores have the tools, know-how, and technology to duplicate all kinds of high-security keys including those that are integrated into a key fob. An associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a key cutting machine to duplicate the original contours of the current key. This will take a little longer than a standard key, but it will give you assurance that your key is safe in the event that it is lost or stolen.