You'll Never Guess This Car Keys Cut's Tricks Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that could save you from a huge expense at the dealership. It will also prevent you from being left stranded if your key breaks.

Modern keys feature transponders that have to be programmed to match the specific vehicle you have. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the tools to create these key replacements for only a fraction of the cost.

What kind of key do I require?

There are many different types of keys. www.g28carkeys.co.uk is the standard key. It does not have any encryption, and is just a piece of metal that fits inside locks. Keys like these are typically used on older cars.

Keys with a 4-sided or double-sided design are more secure and can be identified as having four or two sets on opposite sides of blade. These keys are difficult to pick and can help in preventing burglaries as they require more strength to open locks.

Another type of key is a transponder key that is equipped with an embedded microchip that is programmed to turn on the car. This reduces the risk of theft since the key can only be used with a specific vehicle. Transponder keys are slightly more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys but they offer increased security.

The majority of the time, when you require a new key the local AutoZone store will have the parts and know-how to replace it quickly. Just give them the year of your vehicle, MAKE, and MODEL and they will take charge of the rest.

Certain modern vehicles come with remote fobs that need to be programmed by the vehicle's computer and requires special tools and software. Many people contact their dealer to get this service, but it is not always necessary. You can also search the internet for replacement keys/fobs that are available at much less cost than you'd spend at a dealership. But, before you do this it is important to remember that these keyfobs can be compromised, so make sure you use a trusted source.

Where can I get a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard car keys. To give you the right blank for your key they'll need to know the year of your car and make, along with the model. They will then cut it on site using precision machinery. However, some modern automobile keys like fobs also have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. You may be able to purchase these kinds of keys copied by Home Depot or similar stores but they won't have the tools to reprogram or clone the chip.

The most common method of duplication for an auto key of the traditional type is a user choosing the correct blank key and positioning it next to your existing key to serve as a template. The key's original contours are then traced by a machine to make duplicates. Bring your original key in case it has scratches. These will be incorporated into the new key.

Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is helpful to have the year, make and model of your vehicle along with the remote fob or the key so that we can accurately choose the correct blank for your replacement key. Many stores can also program the new key if your vehicle is a push-button start model.

What equipment do I need?

Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a perfect cut. Making a new key for a car is more complex than copying one that already exists. It requires specialized equipment which is only available in key cutters with the correct tools.

The majority of vehicles sold in Australia come with a transponder chip that is integrated into the key fob that must be programmed into your vehicle before it can be used. This security feature was introduced in the early 1990s to tackle the increasing incidence of car theft in Australia. It is now standard on all new cars sold today.

This means a spare or replacement key will have to be laser cut and then programmed to your specific car which can be a lengthy and costly procedure. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the required equipment and know-how to duplicate your key. All you need to do is bring your key from the previous one and, if you have it, the year and model of your vehicle so we may identify the correct code for programming your new key.

If you own a newer vehicle, it might be worthwhile to have a spare key cut for your push button start car that includes a key fob (which can be programmed to the car separately). Finding a spare or replacement key cut and programmed is a fast and easy process at most Mister Minit stores. All you need to bring is your car keys and, if you can the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can determine which key is equipped with a transponder chip and have it properly programmed to your car.

Can I cut my own key?

Many big-box retailers and hardware stores offer a key cutting service for a small fee. They make use of machines that follow the original contours of your existing key to produce an exact copy. This method works for older keys that do not have a chip. Modern automobiles require a key fob to be programmed, which isn't an easy task, and requires specific equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this type of work, since they are equipped with the required equipment and tools.

You can also visit a kiosk for cutting keys, such as one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient but do not cut every kind of key. Keys that are common can be copied, but other keys with special features must be sent in for processing. It is not recommended to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll need contact a locksmith for help.

A locksmith can also offer an easier option by arriving at your home or office. They can quickly cut keys and even modify your fob, if required. This will eliminate the headache of having to travel to a store and wait in the line.

Dealerships are experts on cars however they don't know everything about keys. Key-cutting might not be their forte. They have their own inside technology and mechanics. Dealerships are large corporations that operate according to strict guidelines to support their bottom lines. They report to car companies, who in turn, report to shareholders and investors who anticipate monetary gains each quarter. These conditions do not lend themselves to good customer service when it comes to cutting keys to cars.

Where can I have a locksmith cut me a key?

Locksmith firms are the best option. You can also have keys made at hardware stores or self-service kiosks. They are licensed, skilled and have the tools to duplicate most types. They can also assist you to program your new car key fob, or transponder chip.

Most standard keys are cut using a key duplicator machine, with the original key acting as a template. A blank key is placed on the opposite side, and both keys move simultaneously through the machine's specialized cutter and create a copy of the original key. For certain kinds of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process takes longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Some keys are marked with a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but this is merely a security measure to prevent the copying of keys that are not authorized. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied however, it could take more time because a locksmith will have to look over the key and ensure it's not tampered with.

Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership to cut or copy them. This is typically because they possess a unique mechanical characteristic or a strange shape. This is done to stop keys from being used to steal items or getting into secure areas.


You'll need to contact the local locksmith to determine whether they are able to cut these specialty keys. You can also check their website to see whether the locksmith is equipped with the equipment and experience required. If they do, you should expect to pay a bit more than having a standard key cut at the hardware store or self-service kiosks, but it will be less expensive and less stressful than having to replace the car key that was lost.