Ten Things Everybody Is Uncertain About Key Cutting For Cars
Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal. It's an art that ensures security and ease of mind for car owners.
Bring car key cut to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting procedure for your car's make and model. The key-cutting process takes 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 early automotive locks and are the simplest type of car key. They are made up of grooves and ridges carved into them that align with the pin settings in the lock that allows you to open it. Mechanical keys are available for copying at the majority of hardware stores, but a professional locksmith with the right tools will typically have better success making copies that are more durable and can work inside your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can also be capable of making laser-cut keys. They are more secure than a traditional mechanical key due to the fact that they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it more difficult to duplicate the key and, if someone uses grinders to try to duplicate the key, they'll likely leave the metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 90s as an extra layer of security. These keys contain an embedded chip in the head of the key that communicates with your vehicle to inform it that it is genuine. If the chip in your car's key is not properly matched, the car won't start. Keys with this type of chip are more expensive than a mechanical one and require professional programming and cutting.
Smart keys are the most recent evolution in car keys. They're a mix of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can open and start your car with this key and operate it by remote. A mobile auto locksmith can design smart keys for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Hardware stores are not the best option to purchase a new mechanical key to replace a lost or damaged one. The majority of hardware stores don't have the equipment or highly-trained experts to create an effective key that will work in your vehicle. You'll save money and be more secure if you let the creation of the key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys may be more expensive than standard blanks, but they offer an extra security layer to your vehicle. They are cut from the middle using a laser which allows them to be put in the lock on either side, and work. They have a unique pattern that is more difficult to duplicate.
The wider shank and smaller grooves can help you identify a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This makes it difficult for thieves to steal your car because the key is more difficult to turn. Keys with this design are less likely to be trapped in locks, as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut keys in your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the receiver of your car. This informs the car that it's the correct key and allows it to start. If a burglar does manage to obtain an unauthorized copy of your key, the car's transmitter will not be able to recognize it and not start.
Laser-cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and are currently used in a variety of luxury vehicles. They cost more to produce than standard keys and require special equipment, but they add an extra layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose one, a professional locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and easily for an affordable price.
You may need to have the transponder chip programmed into your key based on the car you own. You cannot do this by yourself, and dealerships charge a lot for it. A reputable locksmith can programme your transponder, but they may not have the same expertise as your local dealer.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of a majority of modern cars to provide an extra layer security. These chips are registered with the car's ignition system, allowing it to verify the keys before beginning the engine. Even if a thief is capable of stealing and replicating the key, they won't be able to use it to start the car as the engine will not start if the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are present in nearly all vehicles built within the last 20 years. These are essentially radio transmitters that will prevent your car from starting if you don't have the correct key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft as thieves had developed many methods to start cars with brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this, as it only allowed the car to turn on for a short amount of time, and also confirmed that there was a key present.
A normal transponder key will appear like a regular metal key with a transparent top. The plastic top is home to the actual transponder which will send a signal to your car when the key is within close proximity. This signal has an electronic serial number that is identical to the transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible then you'll be in a position to operate your vehicle. This is the most effective anti-theft technology a car manufacturer can implement as it makes car theft almost impossible for anyone who does not have a valid key.
Depending on the model, there are different kinds of transponder keys that can be used. Some of them have a traditional transponder chip that is located inside the head of the key. Others come with an electronic key fob that has the key transponder. Key fobs often have buttons that allow you to lock/unlock the car and set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can assist you in getting you a new transponder to your vehicle and can even programme it if required. This process is usually fairly easy and requires only several steps. The first step is that the new key has to be cut using the standard metal key cutter, which is usually be done at any auto store. Then, the transponder keys will need to be programmed for your particular vehicle by an experienced auto locksmith. The programming process is usually extremely quick and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars have a remote keyless entry system that requires a fob. The fob is used to send a signal from your vehicle to unlock the doors, or start the motor. It can also open the trunk, if equipped.
Keep in mind that the car fob differs from the traditional metal keys you've got on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that must be programmed correctly in order to work with your vehicle. That's why you should never attempt to cut your fob yourself. It is best to leave the cutting and programming of your fobs to professionals.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some have keys that can be folded inside, similar to a switchblade. This lets the fob be smaller and tucked away when not in use. There are also fobs that look more like a regular key, without the foldable key.
If you lost your key fob, it can be a real hassle to find a replacement. It may require specialized tools or a trip to the dealership. Dealers can often only provide the key fob that is compatible with your car. The dealer has the expertise to ensure that a replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's security system.
The process of finding a replacement key fob can be relatively simple if you have the right information. You'll be required to know the car's year, make and model. Bring an extra key that works.
Gather the Necessary Equipment: Before you attempt to program your keyfob check the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that you have the correct tools and equipment. You'll be required to enter a specific mode, which may require pressing certain buttons and turning the ignition off or on a certain number times or a combination. Some manufacturers will even signal the switch to programming mode with a sound or flashing light.
You can take your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to get it programmed and cut. We can save your time and money since we cut your key fobs at a lower price than the dealership. We are also open longer than the dealership, so you don't need to rush off to work to get your key fob cut and programmed.