Where to Get
Car Key CutA professional service for cutting car keys ensures a smooth start and prevents potential issues. They make use of advanced machines that ensure precision and offer warranties on their services.
The majority of modern automobiles require a transponder chip in their key fobs to function properly. These are advanced electronic devices that can only be programmed by a dealer or auto locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thing you think of is to visit your auto dealer if you lose the key or your fob is damaged. The dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle, therefore they should be able to provide you with an additional key. However, you might be shocked to learn how costly their services can be. Luckily, there are many other options that can save you money on replacements for your key.
Car dealerships might offer a variety of keys for cars, but they charge higher prices. Plus, they may not be able to make the exact type of key you require. Certain newer vehicles require laser-cut keys that requires specialized equipment to duplicate programming, create, and duplicate. This is a service that most locksmiths don't offer and therefore must outsource.
An alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that can provide key-making services. Hardware stores typically have a wide variety of blanks to make different types of keys for cars, which means they can meet most requirements. Additionally, these stores usually have lower costs than dealerships.
In addition to offering a wide assortment of car key blanks home improvement stores also have tools and expertise to create
Replacement car key cutting keys and key fobs. They can make laser-cut metal keys that are more difficult to duplicate than traditional metal ones. They can also help you change the fobs you have, if necessary.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the tools to create transponder keys for cars and key fobs as well regular house keys. However it is not possible for every location to make these keys, so you'll have to call ahead before going to a specific place.
Some big-box stores, like Rite Aid, also have key-making services. In fact, you can have
keys cut in my area for your car or a key fob made for less than $15 in most locations! These stores have a huge range of blanks and even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible if your original key has a chip within it and can be programmed using the car's system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys, the best thing to do is contact an emergency locksmith. They will quickly cut and replace your keys. Many locksmiths for automotive provide 24/7 support to help you when you need it. They can cut any type of key from standard to transponder, and they'll also handle VAT systems for newer vehicles.
Most AutoZone locations are able to replace your car key. The process is fairly straightforward: A staff member chooses the appropriate key blank based on the year, make and model. A machine then trace the original contours on your current key. This ensures that your new key will be perfectly. If your key has chip embedded in the fob, though, it will likely require programming using the computer in your vehicle.
Some auto locksmiths are equipped with the technology to reprogram your key for less than the dealership. They'll often also provide faster turnaround times, making them a great choice if you're in a rush. A locksmith who comes from outside might not be able to work on the latest vehicles, such as those with smart keys.
The average car key is $10 to cut at Walmart and is therefore an affordable alternative when you need just a traditional key duplicated. Be aware that keys made with machines are less likely than hand-made ones to last and will get older. It is best to employ an emergency locksmith to ensure that your spare keys last for a long time.
Some modern cars come with smart keys that activate the proximity sensors. They're the most popular and practical keys, however they are also the most difficult to replace when you don't have an original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart key however, you'll need evidence of ownership, such as the registration, title, or purchase paperwork. You may need to pay a tow-truck fee to return your vehicle to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Key-by-VIN providers online are a great alternative for those who are unable to get to a locksmith or dealer. These companies use the VIN number to create an alternative key that is a factory original. They charge less than a dealer or locksmith but you'll require an automotive technician pair the key with your vehicle.
Most cars built from 1990 and later include a transponder chip which must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to function. It is essential to use the car's key code instead of the VIN when purchasing a key online through a key-by-VIN service. If you use the VIN to purchase keys, it's likely that the key will not function when the ignition or door locks have been changed.
It's also important to remember that, even though online key-by-VIN providers can cut your keys, they cannot send you a key that's programmed to your car. This task will still require an auto technician, so make sure you add this cost into your budget.
Locksmiths, dealers, and online key-by-VIN suppliers are the clear winners when it comes to precision. They all cut their keys by code, which means you get an authentic OEM-cut key. Big box stores however, only use an automatic machine to cut their keys. The machine may become less precise over time and could result in a key that does not work properly.
A key bought online is more expensive than a key purchased from a reputable locksmith or dealer. Online resellers tend to make use of
cheap car key cutting components and construction techniques and are usually procured from overseas. You won't get any support or warranty if the key breaks.
It is vital to keep a supply on hand of blank keys, transponders and remotes for each model of vehicle you manage. You can save time and money by using the OEM websites of the manufacturers to find keys for cars that are based on VIN or model and make.
Big Box Stores
Online shopping is so convenient, you may not need to leave your home. However it is true that not all shopping experiences are made to be the same. Some, like getting your car key cut, are much better done in person than by clicking a mouse. There are a lot of big box stores that are equipped and know how to copy your key correctly. Although these stores might not be as good as a locksmith or an online key-by-VIN vendor, they have the advantage of being affordable and convenient.
One of the most common locations to get your key cut is an auto parts store. This is a straightforward and quick process if you have a standard, non-chipped key. The majority of these stores have key cutting machines that will copy the contours of your current key in just a few minutes.
Ace Hardware is a popular chain store. These chains also have key cutting machines, and they can duplicate all kinds of keys. However, if you have a modern key that is part of a key fob, or has a chip in it they will not be able to help.
Some of the more specialized hardware stores like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability of doing chip-related key copies. However, you should talk ahead to your local store to see if they can do this kind of key for you prior to you head over.
You should visit the nearest AutoZone in the event that you own a key with high security. They have the tools, know-how and technology to duplicate most types of high-security keys including those that are incorporated into the key fob. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use the key cutting machine to copy the original contours of your current
key cutting price. This will take a bit longer than a standard one, but it will give you the assurance that your keys are secure should it be lost or stolen.