How To Beat Your Boss Getting A New Car Key Cut

How To Beat Your Boss Getting A New Car Key Cut

Getting a New Car Key Cut

You can save money compared to a dealership by using an auto locksmith. They can make replacements keys for all types of vehicles and models, including fobs which require programming.


Laser cut keys have larger shanks and less grooves carved out. They also include transponder chips that require programming into your car. This can be time-consuming and complicated, but it's still less expensive than going to a dealer.

What kind of keys do I Have to have?

The kind of keys you have is essential when it comes to replacing keys for your car that have been lost. If your car has a traditional key and is older, you can find a replacement in many hardware or locksmith stores. These keys are simple to duplicate and come with an easy, precise ridge cut into the side.

Modern cars are equipped with electronic keys. These keys have a transponder chip in them which sends a signal to the vehicle when they are placed in the ignition. This system is designed in a way that unauthorized users cannot start your car or open doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart key if you lose it, as they require a computer chip. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your possession and leave it with someone in your family or a friend in case you lose your original.

Depending on the make and model of your vehicle It may or might not be possible to replace the missing smart key with a second-hand version. If your vehicle does not have the technology, you'll need to visit a dealership or call a locksmith. You will require an ID photo and proof of ownership to purchase a new car key. They will then need to program the key to the system of your vehicle.

The process can take up to an hour. It is much more expensive than a standard copy of a key. The cost of laser-cut keys can vary between $50 and $100.

As you wait for your new key, don't worry too much about it. It's a good idea to ensure you have a spare in your wallet or with a trusted friend and it's also wise to keep your keychain in check as it moves around.

If you're seeking a way to save money on a new car key, you might consider purchasing an aftermarket version on the internet. It is common to get these keys for 75 % less than what the dealer would charge. However, you will need to cut and program them to your car. Call around to find the most affordable price in your area.

How long will it take?

If you're the kind of person who has trouble remembering where they keep their keys or is prone to losing them, it may be time to invest in a spare car key. A spare key can help you avoid the hassle of having to pay for a locksmith or tow to the dealership when you're locked out and need a replacement key. It can take anywhere from several minutes to several hours to create a replacement key.

It could cost you upwards of $200 to replace a key if you lose the sole key. This is because you will need to pay for the vehicle to be taken to the dealer, who will need to order and program a new key. You'll also have to pay for any labor costs that come with the process. A spare key now is much better than having to pay for the replacement later.

Traditional car keys can be made quickly by a locksmith or at the hardware store. They typically have a slightly thicker shank and have fewer grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. However, if you need an replacement for your key fob, it's likely to take longer since they need to be programmed with the car's computer. In most cases the most reliable auto locksmith can handle this. It's best to contact them ahead of time to inquire about their fees and the time they'll take to complete the task.

At the majority of Mister Minit locations we have the tools and experience to duplicate your existing car keys or fobs. Bring the key you wish to duplicate and the YEAR MAKE MODEL of your vehicle to assist us in determining the kind of transponder chip that is contained within. The year model, make and year will also help us know what kind of key fob you need.

If you're concerned about losing your original, you can go to the dealer who manufactures the car brand you drive. The dealer will need to program the key fob with your car's computers in case you need an replacement. To do this, they will require proof of ownership such as your registration or title documents. You can also find a third car key as a spare and then reprogramme it yourself. You'll have to check your owner's manual to learn how this is done since it varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Are there any limitations on making a key without the original?

If you have an older car it is possible to purchase a standard metal key made by an auto locksmith or in some cases, even at an hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not use specialized electronic components such as chips. However, newer vehicles may contain transponder keys that require an exclusive laser key-cutting device called a sidewinder to create copies of the keys. Additionally, these newer keys could have programmed chips that keep your vehicle from being started without the original key 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 is not the original one will be made. This can be expensive especially if the dealer requires you to have your car taken to the dealer for the key to be programmed.

Calling a locksmith is a more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a copy of your car key at a fraction of the cost of the dealership. This is something you must do prior to losing your keys. It will save you money in the long run if you cannot find keys.

Can I get a key made at AutoZone?

Modern cars are equipped with modern security systems, but we still rely on keys to start and unlock them. It's not as easy as going to the self-service kiosk in the mall and obtaining the replacement key. Rather, modern keys for cars have to be programmed to work with your security system of your vehicle and have a transponder chip inside that is unique to your vehicle.

Fortunately, a number of AutoZone locations have the tools and experience to offer 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 car on the spot.

A machine is used to copy the contours of a working original car key. A blank key is positioned on one side of the duplication machine, while an existing key is placed on the other side. Both are aligned by a special tool. The machine moves the blank key back and forward and cuts out the desired shape. The result is an entirely new key that is exactly the dimensions of the original.

The process of making an additional key for your car may be more complicated. The year the make, model, and year of your car will determine the type of key you own, which must be cut by a professional locksmith to use in your vehicle. Many dealerships carry the required equipment however, you can find a locksmith who will do this work for less. Find out whether  go to these guys  is part of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually purchase replacements on the internet for less than visiting a dealer to have them cut and programmed for you. You can find them by searching "(your year and make)" on websites designed specifically for this for this purpose.

You will need to take your key fob or more complex keys to a dealer or locksmith to have it replaced. You can usually get the key cut by providing the VIN and evidence of ownership, however you'll have to pay for programming. You can avoid the cost by getting an additional key made today.