Where to Get Car Key Cut
A professional service for cutting car keys ensures the smoothest start and helps avoid any potential problems. They use advanced machines to ensure precision and provide warranties for their services.
Most modern automobiles require a transponder chip inside the key fob in order to function properly. These are highly sophisticated electronic components that can only be programmed by a dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
Your first thought may be to visit your local auto dealer in case you lose your key or your key fob breaks. After all, the dealership is the official dealer for your vehicle, so they should be able to offer you the replacement key. You may be shocked by the cost these services could be. There are other ways to save money on essential replacements.
While car dealerships offer a wide selection of car keys and key fobs, they often charge higher prices than other stores. In addition, they might not be able make the type of key you want. For example, some newer automobiles require a laser cut key that requires specific equipment to make, duplicate, and program each one. This is a service that most locksmiths do not offer and must outsource.
An alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that can provide key-making services. Most hardware stores have an array of blanks for different kinds of car keys, which means they usually can meet most requirements. In addition, they typically have cheaper costs than dealerships.
Home improvement stores sell various blank car keys, but they also have the expertise and tools to make keys and replacement fobs for keys. They have the ability to make laser-cut keys, which are more difficult to duplicate than traditional keys made of metal. They can also reprogram your fobs if needed.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the equipment to make transponder car keys and key fobs as well standard house keys. You'll have to call ahead if you'd like these keys made.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, also have key-making services. In fact, you can have keys for your car or a key fob made for less than $15 at many locations! These stores have a large range of blanks and they can cut and program your key for you. This is only possible if the original key has a chip within it and can be programmed by the vehicle's system.
Locksmiths
There's never a good time to lose your car keys. But if you do, an emergency locksmith is the best option to get your keys cut and replaced as quickly as possible. In many places automotive locksmiths provide 24/7 assistance to help out in a crisis. They can cut any type of key from standard to transponder, and they also handle VAT systems for more recent automobiles.
Most AutoZone locations have the ability to replace your car keys. The procedure is quite straightforward: A staff member selects the right key blank based upon your year, make, and model. A machine then traces the original contours of your current key. This ensures that the replacement key fits perfectly. If your key has a computer chip built into the fob it will need to be programmed.
Some auto locksmiths are equipped with the ability to reprogram your key for less than a dealership. They also provide faster turnaround times which is great if you are in need of assistance in a hurry. However, an outside locksmith may not be able to work on the most advanced vehicles, like the ones that have smart keys.
The average car key is $10 to cut at Walmart, so it's a more affordable option when you need just an old-fashioned key duplicated. It's important to keep in mind that keys made by machines are less likely to last long and will wear out over time. If you want your spare keys to last for a long time, it's better to enlist the services of a professional emergency locksmith.
Some modern cars come with smart keys that activate the proximity sensors. They're the most popular and convenient keys, but they're also the hardest 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 registration title, title, or purchase documents. You may have to pay a tow-truck fee for returning your vehicle to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Online key-by VIN suppliers can be a good alternative if you cannot get to a locksmith or dealer. These companies create a replacement car key that is a factory original with the VIN number. They charge less than a locksmith or dealer however you'll need an automotive technician to connect the key.
The majority of cars manufactured from 1990 and upwards come with a transponder chip in the key that must be programmed into the vehicle to function. It is important to use the car's keys code instead of the VIN when you purchase an online key from a key-by-VIN provider. If you use the VIN to purchase keys, it's likely that your key will not function if the ignition or door locks have been changed.
It's also important to remember that, despite the fact that online key-by VIN providers can cut keys, they can't provide you with a key that's programmed to your vehicle. This process will require an auto technician, so make sure you include this cost in your budget.
The most obvious winners when it comes to accuracy are locksmiths, dealers and online key-by-VIN suppliers. They all cut their keys with code, which gives you a genuine OEM-cut key. Big box stores on the other hand, only use an automatic machine to cut their keys. The machine may become less precise over time, resulting in a key that does not function properly.
A key ordered online is more expensive than a key purchased from a reputable locksmith or dealer. Most online resellers are sourced from overseas and make use of low-quality parts and construction methods. You won't get any support or warranty in the event that the key fails.
It is crucial to have a supply on hand of blank keys, transponders and remotes for each model of vehicle you service. You can save time and money by using OEM websites of manufacturers to find keys for cars that are based on VIN, the make and model.
Big Box Stores
Shopping online is so convenient, you may not wish to leave your house. There are many different shopping experiences that are exactly the same. Certain things, like cutting your car keys, is best done in person instead of using a mouse. There are a variety of big box stores that are equipped and know how to get your key copied properly. Although these stores might not be as reliable as a locksmith or an online key-by-VIN vendor, they have the advantage of being easy and affordable.
An auto parts store is the most common place to have your key cut. This is a simple and quick procedure if have a standard, non-chipped key. The majority of these stores have key cutting machines that can duplicate the contours of your current key within a few minutes.
Ace Hardware is a popular chain store. These chains also have key cutting machines and they can copy most kinds of keys. These chains cannot assist you if your key is part of a fob, or contains chip.
Certain of the more specialist stores, such as Menards in Midwest and Home Depot across the country are able to make duplicates of keys with chips. You should contact your local store to inquire whether they can create the type of key prior to you go.
If you have a high-security key, you'll want to visit your nearest AutoZone location. These stores have the tools, knowledge and technology to duplicate most types of high-security keys, including those that are integrated into key fobs. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, make, and model and use a key cutting machine to copy the contours of your current key. This process can take longer than a standard one, but will give you peace of mind that your key will be safe in the event it is lost or stolen.