Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Car Keys Cut?

· 6 min read
Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Car Keys Cut?

Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that will save you from a significant expense at the dealership. It also stops you from being stuck without a functioning key.

Modern keys contain transponders which need to be programmed to function with the vehicle. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for a fractional price.

What kind of key do I require?

There are many different types of keys. The most basic type is a traditional key. It isn't encoded or programming. It is simply cut metal that fits to a lock. They are commonly used on older vehicles.

A double-sided or four-sided key is more secure and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick and help in preventing burglaries as they require more strength to open locks.

Transponder keys are another type of key. They are equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your vehicle. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with that particular vehicle. Transponder keys are slightly more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they are more secure. security.

Most of the time, if you need a replacement key the local AutoZone store has the necessary parts and the knowledge to complete it immediately. All you need to do is give them the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they can handle it for you.

Some modern cars have a remote control that must be programmed into the computer of the vehicle in order to work. This requires special software and tools. Many people ask their dealer to get this service, but it's not always necessary. You can also search the internet for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at much less cost than what you'd spend at a dealership. Before you buy make a purchase, you should be aware that these keyfobs are hackable, so be sure you get a trusted source.

Where can I have a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard keys for cars. They'll need to know the year and make and model of your car to provide you with the correct key blank and cut it with precision machinery on-site. However, some modern car keys, like fobs, also have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. It is possible to have these types of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they will not have the equipment needed to duplicate or program the chip.

A typical key duplication procedure for a standard car key involves a person selecting the correct key blank and putting it on your existing key to act as a template. A machine then trace the original contours of the key to create a duplicate. It is recommended to bring your original key in the event that it has a few minor scratches as these will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores have the specialist equipment required to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is essential to know the year and make of your car, along with your key or remote so that we can choose the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can also program the new key if your car is a push-button start model.

What equipment will I require?

Modern ignitions require specialized tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting the new car key is much more complicated than simply copying an existing key and requires specialised equipment that can be only found at authorised locksmiths, key cutters or hardware stores that have the right tools for the task.

The key fobs in the majority of vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder, which is programmed to your vehicle. This is a security feature that was first introduced in the 1990's to combat rising car theft around Australia and has since become the standard for all new vehicles currently sold.

This means a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut and then programmed for your specific vehicle which can be a lengthy and costly process. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the necessary equipment and know-how to duplicate your current key. All you have to do is bring your key from the previous one and, if you can, the year model, make and year of your vehicle, so that we can determine the right code for programming your new key.

get keys cut  may be worth getting a spare key made for your car that has a push button start. The key will come with the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. The majority of Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a spare or replacement key. All you need to bring is your car keys and, if possible the year, make and models of both keys so we can identify the key that has a transponder chip and get it correctly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I cut my own key?

Many big-box retailers and stores offer a key cutting service for a nominal cost. They employ machines to follow the contours of the original key in order to create an exact replica. This works for keys older than with no chip. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a challenging task that requires specialized equipment and knowledge. This type of work is best to locksmiths, who have access to the equipment and tools needed.

You can also visit an area that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. These are convenient, but they cannot cut all types of keys. Certain keys are able to be copied, whereas other keys that are special need to be mailed in for processing. It is not advisable to copy a key with the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have to contact a locksmith assistance.

A locksmith is more convenient when coming to your workplace or home. They can cut keys quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. It is not necessary to go to the store and stand in a long line.

Dealerships are familiar with cars, but they don't necessarily know everything about keys. They have their own mechanics and experts in interior technology but cutting keys is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are big corporations which operate with strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They are accountable to car companies, who then report quarterly to investors and shareholders. These conditions do not lend themselves to providing good customer service when it comes to cutting car keys.

Where can I get a key made by locksmiths?

Locksmith companies are the best choice.  get keys cut  can also get keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed and experienced and have the necessary equipment to duplicate the majority of keys. They can also help you program your new car key fob or transponder chip.

The majority of standard keys are cut by a key duplicator machine, with the original key serving as the template. The blank key is put on the opposite side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's specialized cutting blade, which creates an exact copy of the original. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process takes longer due to the fact that they must be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys bear a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just an additional security measure to stop unauthorized copying. However, this doesn't mean the key isn't readable however, it could take longer because a locksmith will have to look over the key and make sure it's not damaged.



Other keys may be restricted and require proof of ownership before they can be copied or cut. This is usually because they have distinctive mechanical features or have a unique shape, and is done to prevent them from being used to steal items or get into secured locations.

You will need to contact an area locksmith to determine if they can cut these specialty keys. You can also check their website to check whether the locksmith is equipped with the required equipment and know-how. If they do, you should expect to pay a little more than getting a basic key cut at an hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be less expensive and less stressful than having to replace keys for your car that have been lost.