10 Situations When You'll Need To Know About Getting A New Car Key Cut Getting a New Car Key Cut

An auto locksmith can save you money when you compare it to a dealer. They can create replacement keys for all types of vehicles and models, including fobs which require programming.

Laser cut keys have longer shanks and less grooves carved out. They also come with transponder chips which require programming into your vehicle. This is more complex and takes longer but can still be cheaper than going to the dealership.

What kind of keys do I require?

The type of keys you have is crucial when replacing keys to your car that are lost. If your car is older and uses a traditional key, you can find a replacement at many hardware or locksmith stores. Keys of this kind have simple, precise ridges that are cut into one side and are simple to duplicate.

Most modern vehicles use electronic keys that have a built-in transponder chip which transmits a signal the vehicle when it's inserted into the ignition. This system is designed so that unauthorised users are unable to start your vehicle or open doors. It's more costly to replace a smart key when you lose it since they require a computer chip. This is the reason it's best to keep a spare car key in the vehicle and leave one with a family member in the event that you lose the original.

Depending on your car's model and make depending on the make and model of your car, you may or may not be capable of replacing a smart key that is missing by a replacement from an aftermarket. If your vehicle does not come with this feature, you will have to call an expert locksmith or visit the dealership. You will need a photo ID and proof of ownership to purchase a new car key. Then, they will need to program the key into your vehicle's computer.

This process can take up to an hour and it's important to keep in mind that it will be more expensive than simply having a standard key copied. The cost of a laser-cut key fob will differ between $50 and $100.

As you wait for your new key, don't fret too much about it. You should always keep an extra key in your pocket or with a trusted companion. Also, keep an eye on your keychain when it moves.

You may want to consider purchasing an aftermarket car key online if you want to save money. These keys are often priced at 75% less than what dealers charge. You'll still need to cut and program them into your vehicle. Call around to find the best price in your region.

How long will it take?

If you're a person who forgets where they keep their keys or is susceptible to losing them, it may be time to invest in a spare car key. You'll be able to save yourself the hassle of paying for locksmiths to arrive or having your car tow away to the dealer if you need new keys. car keys cut and programmed can take anywhere between just a few minutes to a few hours to make a replacement key.

If you lose your keys it could cost you up to $200. You'll have to pay to have your car towed into a dealership which will purchase and program the new key. Also, you'll be charged for labor costs. A spare key now is more affordable than paying for a replacement later.

A hardware or locksmith can cut traditional car keys quickly. They have a slightly thicker shank, and fewer grooves than keys made with lasers. If you have to replace the key fob it will take longer since they have to be programmed into the computer of your vehicle. A reliable auto locksmith or dealer will be able to do this in the majority of cases, but it's better to call ahead first to determine the cost and the time it will take them to complete the work.

The majority of Mister Minit locations have the expertise and equipment to duplicate your existing car key or fob. Bring the key you would like to duplicate along with the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to assist us in determining the kind of transponder chip that is in the key. The year, model and make will also help us determine what type of key fobs you need.

If you are worried about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer that makes the car brand you drive. The dealership will have to program the key fob using the car's computer if you need a replacement. They will need to have proof of ownership, like your registration or title documents for this. You can also purchase an extra key for your third car and then reprogram it yourself. You'll need to read the owner's manual to find out how this is done since it will vary between manufacturers.

Are There Any Limitations on Getting a Key Made without the Original?


You can purchase a standard car key made of metal from an auto locksmith or, in certain cases, even a hardware store when you own an older car. This is because older vehicles do not have special electronic components like chips. Newer cars may use transponder keys, which require a special laser-cutting machine called a sidewinder to duplicate the key. Also, these newer keys could have programmed chips that prevent your car from starting without the original key in close proximity to the ignition.

If your car is equipped with one of these keys, it's important to be aware that you may have to visit an authorized dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This could be expensive, especially if you have to take your vehicle to the dealer in order to program the key.

An alternative that is less expensive is to contact locksmiths, who can usually cut and program an exact duplicate of your keys for about half the cost of an auto dealer. This is something you should do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the long run if you are unable to locate keys.

Can I get a key made at AutoZone?

Modern cars come with advanced security systems however, they still rely on keys to open and start them. It's not as easy as visiting a mall self-service kiosk and getting an alternative key. Instead, modern keys for cars have to be programmed to work with your security system of your vehicle and contain a transponder chip that is unique to your vehicle.

Many AutoZone stores have the expertise and equipment to offer these services. If you have your key fob (or even just a traditional key) with you, a staff member can cut it and assist you to you program it to your vehicle onsite.

A machine is used to copy the contours of an original car key. An existing key is positioned on one side of the duplication device and a blank key is placed on the other, where an instrument designed for this purpose holds them in a straight line. The machine moves the blank key back and forward, cutting out the desired shape. The result is an entirely new key that is exactly the dimensions of the original.

The process of creating an extra key for your car could be more complex. The year and make of your vehicle will determine the type of key you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith to work inside your car. You can find locksmiths who can do the job at a lower cost than dealerships. Make sure to verify if the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

It is common to find replacement keys online for less than visiting a dealer to have them cut and programmed. You can find them by searching "(your year and make)" on websites specifically designed for this use.

If you own a more complicated key or key fob, you'll likely need go to the dealer or a locksmith to have it replaced. You can have a key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership however, the programming will cost you. The best method to avoid these costs is to have an extra key created now, so you can use it in case of an emergency.