Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It's a skill that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the appropriate key cutting procedure for your make and model. The process of cutting keys is a matter of minutes and is cheaper than purchasing a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the simplest type of car key and dates back to the beginning of automotive locks. These keys have an arrangement that is in line with the pins of the lock to unlock it. Mechanical keys are available for copying at most hardware stores, but a professional locksmith with the right tools will usually have better success making copies that are more durable and can work with your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can also create laser-cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they have grooves on both sides. This makes it difficult to duplicate or if someone tries to make use of a grinder to the key, they will likely leave behind a lot of metal pieces that won't fit into your lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were invented as an additional layer of security. These keys have a small chip in their head that transmits information to your car, so it can verify that it's genuine keys. If the chip inside your car's key is not matched, your car will not start. These keys are more expensive than a mechanical one and require expert cutting and programming.
Smart keys are the most recent technology in car keys. They're a mix of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. This allows you to unlock and start your car with the key, and allows you to do so from the distance. A professional auto locksmith mobile can create replacement smart keys for your vehicle in just a few minutes using the latest technology.
Many people may think that they can get a replacement for a damaged or lost mechanical key from a hardware store but this is not a good idea. The majority of chains don't have the proper equipment or highly skilled professionals to make an excellent key that works in your vehicle. You will save money and be more secure if you delegate the design of your key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys may be more expensive than standard blanks but they offer an extra layer of security to your car. Lasers are used to cut keys from the middle, which allows them to be inserted into the lock on either end and still work. They also have a different pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
It is possible to discern a laser-cut key from traditional bladed keys by the thicker shank that has fewer carved grooves. This means the key is more difficult to turn than the standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to open your car without a lot of time and effort. Keys with this design are less likely to get caught in the lock, as they have a more precise cutting.
When laser key cutting insert a laser-cut keys into your lock it sends a signal to your car's receiver that matches the unique pattern. This informs the car that it's the right key and it can be used to start. If a burglar does manage to steal an unauthorized copy of your key, your vehicle's transmitter will not be able to recognize it and not start.
Laser-cut keys have been used in luxury vehicles since the 1990s. They are more expensive to produce than standard keys and require specialized equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose one, a professional locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and efficiently for a reasonable price.
It is possible that you will need the transponder chip installed in your key depending on the vehicle you drive. This isn't something you can do on your own, and most car dealerships will charge an amount of money to do it for you. A good locksmith can program your transponder, but they may not have as much expertise as the local dealer.
Transponder chips are included in the keys of a majority of newer vehicles to add an additional layer of security. These chips are synchronized with your car's ignition system, allowing it to verify the key prior to beginning the engine. Even if someone succeeds in stealing the key and replicate it, they won't be able to use it to start your car since the engine will refuse to start in the event that it doesn't have a correct code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips can be found in nearly all vehicles built in the past 20 years. These are radio transmitters that stop your car from starting without the proper key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft, as thieves had developed many 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, because it only allowed the car to be turned on for a brief period of time, and also confirmed that there was a key inside.
A regular transponder key will look much like a regular metal key with a transparent top. This plastic top houses the actual transponder which sends an alert to your car when the key is near enough. This signal contains a digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder inside of your car. If the signals match then you'll be able to operate your car. This is the most effective anti-theft system that a car manufacturer can implement because it makes car theft almost impossible for anyone without a valid key.
There are several kinds of transponder keys that can be utilized in your vehicle, based on the model. Some keys have a transponder chip in the head. Some also have a remote fob which houses the transponder of the key. The key fobs will often include buttons which allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle, set the alarm, and many other functions.
A locksmith can help you acquire an additional transponder key for your vehicle and even program it for you, if necessary. This process is usually fairly straightforward and only requires a few steps. The first step is that the new key needs to be cut with an ordinary metal key cutter, which is usually be done at any automotive store. The transponder keys that are blank will then have to be programmed by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. The process of programming is generally fast and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars come with the remote keyless system which requires fob. The fob is used to send a signal from your vehicle to unlock the doors, or start the motor. If equipped, it can also open the boot.
It is important to keep in mind that the car key fob isn't like the typical metal key you might have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob yourself. It is recommended to leave the cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some come with an open key that folds inside, like a switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be put away when not in use. There are also fobs that appear more like the regular key, but without the foldable key.
It may be difficult to replace your key fob if you lose it. It could require specialized tools or a trip to the dealer. Often, the dealer can only offer a fob compatible with your specific model. This is because the dealer has the technological know-how to ensure that a replacement fob matches up with the security system of your vehicle.
Fortunately, the process of getting a new key fob is fairly easy if you have the right information. You'll have to know your car's year, make and model. Bring an extra key that works.
Get the tools you need: Prior to beginning to program your key fob, consult the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. You'll have to enter a special mode that might involve turning the ignition on and off for a certain amount of times, pressing certain buttons or any combination of these. Some manufacturers may even use an illuminated light or sound to signal the start of programming mode.
You can take your key fob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to have it cut and programmed. We can assist you in saving time and money by cutting your key fobs at a a much more reasonable price than the dealership. We are open later than the dealership and you won't have hurry to get your keyfob programmed and cut.