Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional service for cutting car keys ensures an easy start and avoids potential issues. They employ advanced equipment to guarantee precision and offer warranties for their services.
For modern vehicles it is a transponder chip that is required on the key fob. These are highly sophisticated electronic components that cannot be programmed except by a dealer or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
The first thing you think of is to visit your local auto dealer if you lose your key or your key fob fails. After all, the dealership is the official dealer for your car and are likely to be able to provide you with a replacement key. However, you may be surprised to find out the cost of their services could be. There are other ways to save money on key replacements.
Car dealerships might offer a variety of car keys, but they are more expensive. Plus, laser key cutting near me may not be able to make the type of key you want. For example, some newer cars require a special laser cut key that requires specific equipment to make, duplicate, and program each one. This is a service most locksmiths don't offer and therefore must outsource.
An alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that offers key-making services. The majority of hardware stores stock many blanks for different kinds of car keys, which means they are able to meet the majority of needs. Moreover, these stores typically have lower prices than dealerships.
Home improvement stores sell an array of keys for cars and keys, but they also have the experience and tools to create keys and key fobs that are replacements. They are able to create laser-cut keys that are much harder to copy than traditional metal keys. They can also reprogram your fobs when needed.
Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA can also create replacement keys for cars. They have the tools to create transponder car keys and key fobs, as well as standard house keys. You'll have to call ahead if you'd like keys made.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, also have key-making services. In fact, you can have an auto key or key fob made for less than $15 in most locations! They have a vast range of blanks and even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible in the event that the original key has an embedded microchip that can be programmed into the vehicle's computer system.
Locksmiths
It's never a good idea to lose your car key. If you lose your car keys, the best thing to do is call an emergency locksmith. They can quickly cut and replace your keys. In many areas, automotive locksmiths offer 24/7 service to help you out in a pinch. They can cut any key, which includes transponder keys and regular keys. They also handle VAT systems on newer cars.
The majority of AutoZone stores can replace your car keys. The procedure is fairly easy: an associate picks the appropriate key blank according to your year model, make, and year and then uses a machine to trace the original contours of your current key. This ensures that the replacement key fits perfectly. If your key has chip embedded in the fob, it will most likely require programming with the computer in your vehicle.
Some auto locksmiths have the technology to reprogram your key at less than the dealership. They can also offer faster turnaround times, which is great for those in a hurry. A locksmith from outside may not be able to handle the latest cars, like the ones that have smart keys.
Walmart charges an average of $10 to cut a car key. This is a cheaper alternative if you require a standard duplicate key. It's important to keep in mind, though, that keys made with machines are less likely to last and will wear out over time. If you want your spare keys to last a long time it's best to hire the services of an emergency locksmith.
Some modern cars come with a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. They are the most convenient and popular keys, but also the hardest to duplicate if you don't have the original. Most automotive locksmiths can duplicate a smart key, but you'll need to bring evidence of ownership, such as registration or title or purchase paperwork. You may also have to pay for the tow truck to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Online key-by VIN suppliers are a convenient alternative if you cannot get to a dealership or locksmith. These businesses utilize the VIN number to create a replacement key that's the original from the factory. These companies charge less than an authorized locksmith or dealer however you'll need an automotive technician to pair the key.
The majority of cars manufactured from 1990 and later have a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to work. This is the reason it's essential to use a car's keys code instead of the VIN when you request the key from an online key-by-VIN supplier. If you use the VIN to request keys, it's likely that your key won't work if the ignition or door locks were ever changed.
Be aware that even though key-by-VIN providers online can cut keys, they are not able to deliver a programed key for your car. This will still require an auto technician, so ensure you factor this cost into your budget.
Dealers, locksmiths, and online key-by-VIN providers are the clear winners in terms of accuracy. They all cut their keys with code, which gives you the genuine OEM cut key. Contrary to this, big box stores only cut their keys using an automatic machine that can become less accurate over time, and can result in a key that does not function properly.
A key bought online is more expensive than a key purchased from a reliable locksmith or dealer. The majority of online resellers come from overseas and use low quality parts and construction methods. 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 type of vehicle you service. You can save time and money by using the OEM websites of the manufacturers to locate keys for cars based on VIN, make/model.
Big Box Stores
Online shopping is so convenient, you might not need to leave your home. However, not all shopping experiences are created to be the same. Some, like getting your car key cut, are more effective in person than via the mouse. There are a variety of big box stores that are equipped and know how to copy your key correctly. They may not meet the standards of a locksmith or key-by-VIN provider online, but they are affordable and convenient.
A car parts store is the most frequent location to have your key cut. If you own a standard key that does not include chips, this is a quick and simple process. The stores typically have key cutting machines that duplicate the contours of your existing key in a matter of minutes.
Another common option is at a chain hardware store such as Ace Hardware. These chains have key cutting machines that can copy most types. However, if you have modern keys that are part of a key fob or is equipped with a chip, these stores will not be able to assist.
Some of the more specialized hardware stores, like Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the capability of doing key copies that are chip-related. You should call the store in your area to find out if it can make keys like this before you go.
If you own a security key, you'll want to visit your nearest AutoZone location. They have the tools, know-how, and technology to duplicate all kinds of high-security keys including those that are integrated into the key fob. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, make, and model and use a key cutting machine to copy the original contours of the current key. This process will take a few more minutes than a standard key, but it will give you peace of mind that your key is secure should it be lost or stolen.