Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of cutting car keys requires more than just bent metal. It's a skill that provides security and ease of mind to vehicle owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key by using the proper key cutting method for your vehicle's make and model. The process of cutting keys takes only a few minutes and is cheaper than a replacement car key purchased from a dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the simplest type of car key and date back to the beginning of automotive locks. These keys have a pattern of ridges and grooves cut into them that line up with the pins in the lock that allows you to open it. Mechanical keys can be copied from the majority of hardware stores, but an experienced locksmith with the right tools will typically have greater success in creating copies that are more durable and work with your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can also make keys that are laser-cut. They are more secure than mechanical keys as they have grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to make copies, and if someone tries to make use of a grinder to the key, they will likely leave behind a lot of metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s to provide an additional layer of security. These keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key that communicates with your car to confirm that it is genuine. If the chip on the key of your car is not properly matched, the car will not start. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require professional programming.
Smart keys are the latest evolution in car keys. They are a combination of the mechanical key and a wireless remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your vehicle by using the key. It also lets you do it from the distance. A professional auto locksmith mobile can create smart keys that can be replaced for your vehicle in just a few minutes using the latest technology.
Hardware stores are not the best place to get a new mechanical key to replace the one that has been damaged or lost. Most chains don't have the right equipment or highly trained professionals to be able to create an authentic key that works in your vehicle. You'll save money and be more secure if you let the making of the key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to produce than standard key blanks but provide an additional layer of security for your car. They are carved from the middle using a laser which allows them to be placed into the lock from either side, and work. They also have a different pattern and are harder to duplicate.
It is possible to distinguish a key made of lasers from traditional bladed keys due to the thicker shank that has fewer carved grooves. This means the key is harder to turn than an ordinary key, making it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. They are also less likely to get stuck in locks because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert a laser-cut keys into your lock, it sends a signal to the car's receiver that matches the unique pattern. This informs the car that it's the correct key, and it can be used to start. If a thief gets their hands onto an unauthorized key, the car's transmitter will not register it. It will not start.
Laser-cut keys first came out in the 1990s and are used in a variety of luxury vehicles. They are more expensive and require specialized equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace yours quickly and at a reasonable cost should you lose it.
You may need to have the transponder chip programmed into your key based on the vehicle you own. You cannot do this yourself, and car dealerships charge a lot for it. A reputable locksmith can programme your transponder, but they might not have the same experience than your local dealer.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of a majority of newer cars to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered with the car's ignition system, allowing it to verify the keys before beginning the engine. Even if the person who stole it is able to steal and duplicate the key, they won't be able to start the car since the engine won't start in the event that the code isn't valid.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips are present in the majority of cars manufactured in the past 20 years. These are essentially radio transmitters that can stop your car from starting if you don't have the proper key in place. This was a significant breakthrough in the fight against car theft, since thieves had devised a variety of methods to start cars with brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing auto key cutting machine ). The transponder chip was able to solve all of that as it only allowed the car to be turned on for a short time while also registering that there was a genuine key in place.
A regular transponder will look like a metal key with a top made of plastic. The plastic top is home to the actual transponder, which will send a signal to your car once the key is in close proximity. The signal is a serial number digital that matches the transponder in your car. If the signals are compatible your car's system, it will allow you to operate it. This is among the best forms of anti-theft technology that a car manufacturer has implemented since it has made theft of cars nearly impossible for those who do not have a valid key.
There are a variety of kinds of transponder keys that can be used in your vehicle, depending on the model. Some keys include an embedded transponder in the head. Others come with remote keys that has the transponder for the key. Key fobs typically feature buttons that can lock/unlock your car or set the alarm and other functions.
A locksmith can assist you get an updated transponder key to your car, and can program it for you, if necessary. The process is generally straightforward and only requires just a few steps. First, the new key needs to be cut with an ordinary metal key cutter, which can usually be done in any automotive store. Then, the blank transponder key must be programmed for your particular vehicle by a professional auto locksmith. The programming process is usually fast and takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
A lot of modern cars come with an electronic remote keyless system that requires a fob. The fob's key sends an electronic signal to the vehicle to open doors or start the engine. It also opens the trunk, if equipped.
Keep in mind that the car fob is different from the traditional metal keys you may have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. That's why you should never attempt to cut your own fob. It is always advisable to bring your key fob to a professional to cut and program it.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some come with an internal key that folds into it, similar to the switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be hidden away when not being used. There are fobs that don't have the foldable feature that appear like regular-sized keys.
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, dealers can only offer a fob compatible with the specific model of your car. The dealer has the technical knowledge to ensure that the replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's security system.
The process of obtaining the replacement key fob you need can be quite simple if have the correct information. You will be required to know the car's year, make and model. Take along a spare key that is functional.
Gather the necessary tools: Before beginning to program your key fob, make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure you have all the required tools and equipment. You'll have to enter a specific mode that may require switching the ignition off and on for a certain amount of times, pressing specific buttons or any combination of these. Some manufacturers may even employ a flashing light or sound to signal the switch to programming mode.
You can bring your keyfob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to have it cut and programmed. We can save you time and money as we cut your key fobs for less than the dealership. We are open earlier than the dealer and you won't have to rush to work to have your key fob programmed and cut.