What NOT To Do During The Getting A New Car Key Cut Industry Getting a New Car Key Cut

You can save money when compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can create replacement keys for all vehicle types and models, including fobs which require programming.

Laser cut keys have larger shanks and less carved-out grooves. They also have transponder chips that need to be programmed to your vehicle. This process is more complicated and takes more time, but can still be cheaper than going to the dealership.

What kind of keys do I Need?

The type of keys you have is essential when it comes to replacing lost car keys. If your car is equipped with traditional keys and is older, you can get a replacement in many hardware or locksmith stores. These types of keys have simple, precise ridges that are cut into one side, and are simple to duplicate.

The majority of modern vehicles have electronic keys that have an embedded transponder chip which transmits a signal the vehicle when it's placed in the ignition. This system is designed to block unauthorized users from opening your vehicle or opening the doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart key when you lose it, as they require an electronic chip. This is why it's best to keep a spare car key in your possession and leave one with a friend or family member in the event that you ever do lose the original.

Depending on the make and model of your vehicle it might or may not be possible to replace the missing smart key with an aftermarket version. If yours does not have this feature, you will require contacting a locksmith or visit the dealership. They will require proof of ownership as well as a photo ID in order to purchase the new key for you, and then they'll need to program it into your car's system.

The process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and it's important to note that it will be more expensive than just getting a standard key copied. Laser-cut keys could cost between $50 to $100.

As you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. It's a good idea to make sure you have an extra in your pocket or with a buddy, and it's also smart to keep an eye on your keychain as it travels around.

Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if you want to save money. You can often find these keys for about 75 percent less than the price dealers would charge. They'll still have to be cut and programmed for the specific vehicle you own, however, so make sure you call around for the best prices in your area.

How key cutting cost Will It Take?

If you're a person who forgets where their keys are or is prone to misplacing them, it may be the right time to purchase an extra car key. You can save yourself the hassle of paying for a locksmith to come out or having your vehicle towed to the dealer if you require a new key. Depending on the type of key you have, it could take from a few minutes to a couple of hours to create a new key.

If you lose your key it could cost you up to $200. This is because you have to pay for the vehicle to be towed to the dealership, which will then need to purchase and program a replacement. Additionally, you'll have to pay for any costs associated with labor that come from the process. A spare key now is much better than having to pay for the replacement later.

A hardware store or locksmith can create traditional car keys in a short time. They have a slightly larger shank and have fewer grooves than a keys made with lasers. If you need to replace the key fob it will take longer as they must be programmed into the computer of your vehicle. A reputable auto locksmith or the dealer can do this in most cases but it's best to contact them first to find out what their rates are and how long it will take them to complete the job.

At the majority of Mister Minit locations we have the tools and know-how to duplicate your current car keys or fobs. Bring the key you wish to duplicate along with the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to aid us in determining the type of transponder chip is contained within. The year, model and the make will also help us determine the type of key fob you require.


If you're concerned about losing your original key fob, you can also go to the dealer that makes the car you drive. If you require an replacement for your key fob, it may take longer because the dealership will need to program it with your car's computer. To do this, they'll require proof of ownership, such as your registration or title documents. You can also find a third car key as a spare and reprogramme it yourself. You'll have to read the owner's manual for your car to see how to do this, since it varies from one manufacturer to the next.

Are there any limitations on obtaining a Key without the Original?

If you have an older vehicle it is possible to purchase a standard metal key made by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, the hardware store. This is because older cars don't have special electronic components such as chips. However, newer vehicles may contain transponder keys that require an exclusive laser key-cutting device called a sidewinder to make copies of the key. Additionally, these keys may have programmed chips that keep your vehicle from being started without the original key being in close proximity to the ignition.

You'll have to visit an auto dealer if your vehicle has an advanced key. A replacement key that does not match the original will be created. This can be expensive especially if the dealer requires that your vehicle be towing in the key to be programmed.

Contacting a locksmith is a much more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a replica of your car keys at a cost that is half that of a dealership. It is crucial to take this step prior to losing your car keys, as it can save you lots of money in the long run when you're unable to locate the keys.

Can I purchase a key at AutoZone?

Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they rely on keys to open the car and allow it to start. It's not as easy as a trip to the mall self-service kiosk and getting the replacement key. Rather, modern car keys have to be programmed to work with your vehicle's security system and must contain a transponder chip that is unique to the vehicle you own.

Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations have the equipment and expertise to provide these services. If you have a key fob or even a traditional key associate at the store, they can assist you in programming it to your vehicle on-site.

A machine is used to copy contours of a working original car key. A blank key is positioned on one side of a duplication machine, and an existing key is placed on the other. Both are held in place with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working key and the blank key in a circular motion, cutting out the desired shape. The new key will be able to match the original dimensions.

When it comes time to make a spare car key it can be more complicated. The year, make, and model of your vehicle will determine the type of key you own, which will need to be cut by a professional to work in your car. You can find locksmiths who will do the work for less than dealerships. Find out if the locksmith belongs to the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own an old-fashioned key, you may be able to purchase replacements online for cheaper than going to a dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can find them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites designed specifically for this for this purpose.

If you own a more complicated key or a key fob, you'll need to visit the dealer or a locksmith to have it repaired. You can usually get a key cut by providing the VIN and proof of ownership, but you'll have to pay for programming. You can avoid these costs by having an extra key made now.