Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It's a technique that offers security, convenience and peace of mind to vehicle owners.
Bring your key to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting procedure for your vehicle's make and model. The process of cutting keys takes a matter of minutes and is cheaper than purchasing a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car keys. These keys have a pattern that matches the pin settings of a lock to open it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, but locksmiths who have the right tools will be able to create copies that are more durable and can be used inside your car.
A professional locksmith can make laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys because they have grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to duplicate the key, and, if someone uses grinders to try to copy it, they'll likely leave some metal pieces that will not fit into the lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an additional layer of security. These keys have a chip in the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to let it know it is legitimate. If the chip in the car's key isn't matched, your vehicle will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require a professional cutting and programming.
Smart keys are the latest evolution in car keys. These are a combination between the mechanical key and a wireless remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your car with the key, and allows you to do this from the distance. A mobile auto locksmith can make smart keys for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Many people may think that they can find a replacement for their lost or damaged mechanical key at a hardware store however this isn't an appropriate method. The majority of hardware stores do not have the tools or highly-trained experts to create keys that work in your vehicle. It is safer to hand over the making of your key to a professional and you will most likely save money in the end by opting for this method.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to make than standard keys, but provide an additional layer of security for your car. Lasers are used to cut them from the middle, allowing them to be inserted into the lock at either side and still function. They feature a distinct pattern and are more difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has less grooves will allow you to identify a laser-cut key from a bladed traditional key. This makes the key more difficult to turn than a standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. The keys are less likely to be trapped in locks, because they are more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut keys into your lock, a unique signal is sent to the receiver of your car. This signals the car that it's the correct key, and can be started. If a thief is able to get their hands onto an unauthorized key, the car's transmitter will not register it. It will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s and are used in a wide range of luxury vehicles. They cost more to make than regular keys and require specialized equipment, but they add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace your key quickly and easily at a reasonable price if you lose it.
You may need to have the transponder chip installed in your key based on the vehicle you own. It's not something you can do yourself, and car dealerships charge a lot to do it. A reputable locksmith will be able to program your transponder on your behalf even though they may not have the same level of expertise as the dealer you are dealing with.
The majority of modern cars have laser-cut keys with transponder chips that provide an extra layer of security. These chips are registered with the car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the key prior to making the motor start. Even if the thief is capable of stealing and copying the key, they won't be able to start the car because the engine won't be able to start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are found in almost all cars built in the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters which stop your car from being started without the correct keys. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft, since thieves had devised a variety of ways to start cars using brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing cost of cutting a car key ). The transponder chip solved all of that as it would only allow the car to turn on for a short time while also registering that there was a genuine key in the ignition.
A standard transponder can look like a metal key with an outer cover made of plastic. This plastic top houses the transponder, which will send the signal to your car when the key is close enough. This signal contains a serial number digital that matches the transponder in your car. If the signals match, you will be in a position to operate your vehicle. This is the most effective anti-theft technology a car manufacturer can implement because it makes car theft impossible for anyone without an official key.
Depending on the model, there are different kinds of transponder keys that are available. Certain keys come with a transponder chip in the head. Some have remote keys which includes the transponder of the key. The key fobs will often include buttons that can lock/unlock your vehicle, set the alarm, and perform other functions.
A locksmith can help you acquire a new transponder key for your vehicle and even program it for you, if necessary. The process is typically simple and involves only the following steps. First, the new key has to be cut with the standard metal key cutter, which can usually be done at any auto store. The blank transponder keys will then have to be programmed by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is typically extremely quick and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A majority of modern vehicles have the remote keyless entry system that requires a fob. The key fob transmits signals to your vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. If equipped, it can also open the boot.
Keep in mind that the car fob is different from the standard metal keys you may have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that has to be programmed correctly to fit your specific vehicle. You should never try to cut your key fob on your own. It's best to leave cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs tend to be small and rectangular. Some have keys that fold inside it, much like the switchblade. This reduces the size of the fob and allows it to be hidden away when not in use. You can also find fobs that appear more like the regular key, but without the foldable key.
It may be difficult to replace your key fob when you lose it. It may require special tools or a visit to the dealer. Often, dealers can only offer a fob compatible with the specific model of your car. The dealer has the technical expertise to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's safety system.
The process of getting a replacement key fob can be quite simple if have the correct information. First, you have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle. Also, you should have a spare key to bring along.
Get the necessary equipment Before you begin to program your keyfob review the instructions supplied by the manufacturer to ensure you have the right tools and equipment. You will be required to enter a specific mode, which may involve pressing certain buttons, turning the ignition on/off in a certain amount of times, or some combination of these. Some manufacturers may even employ a flashing light or a sound to signal the start of programming mode.
You can take your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to be programmed and cut. We can save you time and money as we cut your key fobs for cheaper than the dealership. In addition, we are open longer than the dealership so you don't need to rush off to cut your key fob and programmed.