Key Cutting For Cars: Myths And Facts Behind Key Cutting For Cars
Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It's a skill that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to vehicle owners.
Bring your key to an AutoZone store and a staff member will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting technique for your vehicle's make and model. The process of cutting keys is 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 the early automotive locks and are the most basic type of car keys. They have a pattern that matches the pin settings of a lock to unlock it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, but locksmiths who have the right tools will be able to make copies that are more durable and will work inside your car.
A professional locksmith can make laser-cut keys. key cutting cost are more secure than a standard mechanical key since they have grooves on both sides of the key. This makes it more difficult to duplicate or if someone tries to grind the key, they will likely leave behind a large amount of metal pieces that will not fit in the lock.
In the 1990s transponder keys were invented as an additional layer of security. These keys contain a tiny chip in their head that transmits information to your car, so it can verify that it's a genuine key. If the chip inside the key is not connected to your car it will not be able to start and remain in a standstill. These keys are more costly than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the newest evolution in car keys. They are a combination of the mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can open and start your car with this key and do so remotely. A mobile auto locksmith can create smart keys for your vehicle in minutes using the latest technology.
Many people think they can get an alternative for their lost or damaged mechanical key from hardware stores however this isn't a safe practice. The majority of chains don't have the proper equipment or highly trained professionals to be able to create a quality key that can be used in your vehicle. It is better to hand over the making of your key to a professional, and you'll save money in the long run by opting for this method.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to produce than standard key blanks but provide an additional layer of security for your car. Lasers are used to carve keys from the middle allowing them to be inserted into the lock on either side and still function. They also have a unique design and are more difficult to duplicate.
The thicker shank with less grooves will allow you to identify a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This makes it difficult for thieves to steal your car as the key is more difficult to turn. These keys are less likely to be stuck in the lock as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut keys in your lock, a unique signal is sent to the receiver of your car. This informs the car that it's the right key and can be started. If a thief 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 have been utilized in luxury cars since the 1990s. They are more expensive and require special equipment to create, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose one, an experienced locksmith will be able to replace it quickly and easily for reasonable cost.
Depending on your car it may be necessary to have a transponder chip programmed into the key to allow it working. It's not something you can do yourself, and car dealerships charge a lot to do it. A good locksmith can programme your transponder, but they might not have the same expertise as your local dealer.
Transponder chips are included in the keys of a majority of newer vehicles to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your vehicle's specific ignition system and allow it to verify that the key is authentic before allowing the engine to start. Even if the person who stole it is capable of stealing and replicating the key, they will not be able to use it to start the car since the engine won't start when the code isn't correct.
Transponder Keys
Most cars built in the past 20 years or so will have a transponder chip in it. These are radio transmitters which stop your car from being started without the right keys. This was a major innovation in the fight against auto theft because thieves had found a lot of ways to start vehicles by brute force (pushing the ignition switch using the flat screwdriver) and hot-wiring (bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was the answer to all of this as it only allowed the car to turn on for a short period of time, and also confirmed that there was a key inside.
A regular transponder will look like a key made of steel with an outer cover made of plastic. The plastic top houses the transponder, which will send a signal to your car when the key is near enough. The signal is comprised of an electronic serial number that is identical to the original transponder inside of your car. If the signals are compatible, you will be able to operate your car. This is one of the most effective forms of anti-theft technology that a car manufacturer has implemented because it has made car theft nearly impossible for anyone who does not possess a valid key.
Depending on the model, there are different types of transponder key that are available. Some keys have a transponder chip in the head. Some have an accessory fob that houses the transponder chip of the key. Key fobs usually feature buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your car or set the alarm and many other functions.
A locksmith can help get you a new transponder for your vehicle, and even programme it if required. This procedure is usually straightforward and only involves a few simple steps. The new key needs to be cut with a metal key cutter. This can be done at any auto shop. Then, the blank transponder key will need to be programmed to your specific vehicle by a professional auto locksmith. The procedure of programming usually takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern vehicles have an electronic remote keyless system that requires fob. The fob's key sends a signal to your vehicle to open doors or start the engine. If it is equipped, it will also unlock the boot.
Be aware that a car fob is different from the conventional keys you may have on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment that has to be properly programmed to fit your specific vehicle. Don't try to cut your key fob on your own. It is recommended to leave the cutting and programming of your fobs to professionals.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some feature keys that fold inside it, similar to a switchblade. This allows the fob to be smaller and tucked away when not in use. You can find fobs without the foldable feature, that look like a regular-sized key.
If you lose your key fob it can be a huge pain to get an alternative. It may require special tools or a visit to the dealer. Usually, the dealer will only provide a fob that works with your specific model. The dealer has the technical knowledge to ensure that a replacement fob is compatible with your car's safety system.
Fortunately, the process of getting an entirely new key fob is fairly easy if you have the correct information. For starters, you need to know the year, make and model of your car. Bring along a spare key that works.
Gather the necessary tools: Before attempting to program your key fob, consult the manual of the manufacturer to ensure that you have all of the necessary tools and equipment. You'll need to enter a particular mode, which could involve pressing certain buttons and turning the ignition off or on a certain number times or some combination of these. Some manufacturers might even employ an illuminated light or sound to signal the entry into programming mode.
You can bring your key fob to the Mister Minit store nearest you to be cut and programmed. We can save your time and money since we cut your key fobs at cheaper than the dealership. We are also open longer than the dealership so you don't have to rush off to get your key fob cut and programmed.