Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than shaping a piece of metal. It's a technique that provides security and convenience as well as peace of mind for vehicle owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the appropriate key cutting technique for your car's brand and model. The process of cutting keys is only a few minutes and is much less costly than buying a new car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car key. They are made up of ridges and grooves cut into them that line up with the pin settings in the lock that allows you to unlock it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, however locksmiths with the right tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and work in your vehicle.
A professional locksmith will also be capable of making laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it difficult to duplicate and, if someone attempts to use a grinder on the key, they'll likely leave behind a lot of metal scraps which will not fit into the lock.
In the 1990s, transponder keys were developed to add another layer of security. These keys contain a tiny chip in their head that communicates with your car, so it can verify that it's genuine keys. If the chip on the car's key isn't properly matched, the vehicle will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the latest advancement in car keys. They are a combination of the mechanical key and a wireless remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your car using the key, and allows you to do so from an extended distance. A mobile auto locksmith can design smart keys for your car within a matter of minutes, using the latest technology.
Many people may think that they can get a replacement for their damaged or lost mechanical key from the hardware store but this is not an appropriate method. Most chains don't have the right equipment or highly skilled professionals to make an authentic key that works in your vehicle. It is much safer to hand over the making of your key to a professional, and you will most likely save money over the long term by choosing this option.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys are more costly to make than standard keys, but they provide a higher level of security for your vehicle. They are carved from the middle using a laser which allows them to be placed into the lock from either side and still work. They also have a unique pattern and are harder to duplicate.
The wider shank and fewer grooves will help you discern a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This means that the key is more difficult to turn than a standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to open your car without a lot of time and effort. These keys are also less likely to get stuck in the lock since they have a more precise cut.
When you insert the laser-cut key into your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the car's receiver. This informs the car that it's the correct key, and that it is able to be started. If a thief does manage to get their hands on an unauthorized copy of your key, your vehicle's transmitter will not be able to recognize it and will not start.
Laser-cut keys have been utilized in luxury vehicles since the 1990s. They are more expensive and require specialized equipment to make, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace your key quickly and at a reasonable cost should you lose it.
Depending on the car you drive depending on the model, you might need to include a transponder chip into the key to get it working. You can't do this yourself, and car dealerships charge a significant amount to do it. A good locksmith can program your transponder, however they might not have as much expertise than your local dealer.
The majority of newer vehicles come with laser-cut keys that feature transponder chips that provide an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system, allowing it to verify that the key is genuine before you start the engine. Even if a burglar is able to steal the key and duplicate it, they won't be capable of using it to start your car as the engine won't start when it doesn't have the proper code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are found in nearly all vehicles built in the last 20 years. These are radio transmitters that make sure your car isn't started without the correct keys. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft, as thieves had come up with a variety of ways to start cars by brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was the answer to all of this as it only allowed the car to be turned on for a short period of time and also registered that there was a key in place.
A standard transponder keys will look like a normal metal key with a transparent top. The plastic top is home to the actual transponder which will transmit a signal to your car once the key is within close proximity. This signal contains a digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder in your car. If the signals match, you will be able to operate your car. This is the most effective anti-theft system that an automaker can put in place since it makes car theft impossible for anyone with an official key.
There are several kinds of transponder keys that can be utilized in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some keys include a transponder chip inside the head. Others have an electronic key fob that has the transponder of the key. Key fobs usually include buttons that can lock/unlock your vehicle, set the alarm, and many other functions.
A locksmith can help you acquire an additional transponder key for your car, and can program it for you, if necessary. This procedure is usually straightforward and only involves just a few steps. The new key needs to be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any auto shop. The blank transponder keys will then need to be programmed by an expert locksmith for your vehicle. The programming process is usually extremely quick and takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars use a remote keyless entry system that requires a fob. The fob sends an electronic signal to the vehicle to unlock doors or start the engine. It also opens the trunk, if equipped.
Keep in mind that the car fob is different from the standard metal keys you may have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that needs to be programmed correctly to fit your specific vehicle. That's why you should never attempt to cut your fob yourself. It's always best to take your fob to an expert for cutting and programming.
Fobs tend to be small and rectangular. Some have a key that folds inside, like an ad-hoc switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be put away when not being used. You can find fobs without the foldable feature, that appear like regular-sized keys.
It can be difficult to replace your key fob when you lose it. It could require specialized tools or a trip to a dealership. Often, dealers can only provide a fob that works with your specific model. This is because the dealer has the technology know-how to ensure that the replacement fob works with your car's security system.
Fortunately visit the next page of obtaining the new key fob you want is relatively simple when you have the right information. To begin, you'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle. Bring along a spare key that works.
Gather Necessary Tools: Before beginning to program your key fob, read the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment. You will need to enter a particular mode that might involve turning the ignition off and on a certain number of times, pressing specific buttons or a combination of both. Some manufacturers will even signal entry into programming mode with a sound or light flash.
Once you've collected the necessary items, you can take your key fob to the nearest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We can assist you in saving time and money by cutting your key fobs at a much more reasonable price than the dealership. In addition, we are open longer than the dealership, so you don't have to rush off to get your key fob cut and programmed.