10 Quick Tips To Car Keys Cut Where to Get Car Keys Cut

Getting your car keys cut is an essential service that can save you from a significant expense at the dealer. It will also prevent you from being left stranded when your keys break.

Modern keys come with transponders that have to be programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. Your local AutoZone is equipped to replace these keys for an affordable cost.

What kind of key do I need?

There are key cut places near me of different kinds of keys. The most basic type of key is the traditional key. It doesn't have any encoder, and is just a piece of metal that fits into a lock. They are commonly used on older vehicles.

A four-sided or double-sided key is a more secure option and is easily identified by having two or four sets of teeth on opposite sides of the blade. These keys are more difficult to pick, and they can be used to prevent break-ins as they require more strength to open locks.

Transponder keys are a second type of key. They have an embedded microchip which is programmed to begin your vehicle. This type of key is less likely to be stolen because the key is only compatible with the specific vehicle. Transponder keys are a little more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they do provide extra security.

If you require replacement of a key and you need to replace a key, the AutoZone store nearest you will typically have the necessary parts and know-how. All you need to do is provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle, and they'll take care of it for you.

Certain modern vehicles come with a remote fob that must be programmed by the car'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 on the internet for replacement keys or fobs for a fraction of the price the price you'd pay at a dealer. Before you buy, be aware that these key fobs can be hacked, so make sure you get a trusted source.

Where can I have a key cut for me?

Most auto locksmiths are able to cut standard keys for cars. They'll need the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to provide you with a proper key blank, which they cut using high-quality machinery on site. However, some modern car keys, like fobs, also have built-in transponder chips which require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy the keys, but they won't have the equipment needed to duplicate the chip or program it.


The standard procedure for duplicating keys for a standard auto key involves an associate choosing the appropriate 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 create a duplicate. It is best to bring along your original key in the event that it has a few small scratches, as they will be included in the new key.

Mister Minit stores are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate keys for most automobiles. It is essential to know the year and make of your car, together with your remote or key so that we can select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can also help by programming the new key for your vehicle, if it's a push button start model.

What equipment do I need?

Modern ignitions require precision tools to ensure a perfect cut. Cutting a new key for automobiles is more complicated than replicating one already in use. It requires special equipment which can only be found in key cutters that have the correct tools.

The key fobs in the majority of automobiles sold in Australia are equipped with a transponder that must be programmed for your vehicle. This is a security feature that started in the 1990's to stop increasing car theft in Australia and has since become the standard for all new cars that are sold today.

This means that a spare or replacement key will need to be laser cut before being programmed to your specific car which can be a very costly and time-consuming procedure. The majority of Mister Minit locations are equipped with the tools and experience to duplicate your key. All you need to do is bring your current key and, if you can provide the year model, make and year of your vehicle so that we may identify the correct code to program your new key.

It may be worth getting a spare key made for your push-button start car. This key will have the key fob which can be programmed separately to the car. Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you have to bring is your car key and, if you can, the year, makes and models of both keys so that we can determine which key has a transponder chip, and get it correctly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I cut my own keys?

Many hardware stores or big box retailers provide the service of cutting keys for a fee. They make use of a machine that tracks the contours of your original key to create an exact replica. This method works on older keys that do not include a chip. Modern automobiles require that a key fob be programmed. This is a complicated task that requires specialized equipment and expertise. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this kind of job as they have the necessary equipment and tools.

You can also visit a kiosk that cuts keys, such as the one operated by KeyMe. They are convenient, but they don't cut every kind of key. Keys that are commonly used can be copied. Other keys with specializations must be mailed in order to be processed. It is not advisable to copy a key containing the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have contact a locksmith for help.

A locksmith is more convenient when visiting your workplace or home. They can cut a key and modify your fob, if required. It is not necessary to go to the store and wait in an interminable line.

Dealerships know cars, but they don't necessarily know anything about keys. They have their own experts in interior technology and mechanics however, key cutting is not their field of expertise. Dealerships are large companies which operate with strict policies to serve their bottom lines. They are accountable to car companies, who submit quarterly reports to investors and shareholders. This is not a good way to provide high-quality customer service, especially when it is time to cut car keys.

Where can I have a locksmith cut a key for me?

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

Most standard keys are cut using a special key duplicator machine, with the original key being used as a template. The blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys are moved simultaneously through the machine's cutting blade, which creates a duplicate of the original. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer since they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Some keys are marked "do duplicate" to stop copies that are not authorized. This is a measure to protect. It doesn't mean that the key cannot be copied however, it could take more time because locksmiths will need to look over the key and make sure that it's not altered.

Certain keys are limited and require proof of ownership to cut or copy them. This is usually because they have distinctive mechanical features or are a strange shape and is intended to prevent them from being used to steal objects or get into secure locations.

You will need to contact the local locksmith to determine whether they are able to cut these keys. You can also go to their website to check whether the locksmith has the required equipment and know-how. If they do make them, you'll have to pay a bit more than if you were to get a standard key from an hardware store or self-service kiosk. However, it is more affordable and less stressful to replace keys that have been lost.