Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal. It's a technique that provides security, convenience, and peace of mind for vehicle owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key by using the proper key cutting technique for your vehicle's make and model. The key cutting process takes only about a minute and is cheaper than buying new car keys at the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys date back to the early automotive locks and are the most basic type of car keys. They are made with patterns that match the pins of the lock to unlock it. Hardware stores are able to copy mechanical keys, however locksmiths with the right tools will be able to create copies that are more durable and will work inside your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can make keys that are laser-cut. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to duplicate the key, and if someone is using a grinder to attempt to do so they'll likely leave behind metal scraps which will not fit in your lock.
In the 1990s, transponder keys were developed to add another layer of security. These keys contain a tiny chip inside the head that transmits information to your car to ensure it's authentic keys. If the chip inside the car's key isn't matched, your car won't start. These keys are more costly than mechanical keys and require professional programming.
Smart keys are the most recent evolution in car keys. They're a mix of a mechanical key and a wireless remote control. You can unlock and start your car with this key, and do it remotely. A mobile auto locksmith can create smart keys for your car in a matter of minutes using the most recent technology.
Many people believe that they can get a replacement for their lost or damaged mechanical key from a hardware store but this is not a safe practice. The majority of chains don't have the right equipment or highly skilled professionals to make an authentic key that will work well in your vehicle. You'll save money as well as be more secure if you let the making of the key to an expert.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys can be more expensive than standard blanks, but they offer an extra layer of security to your vehicle. They are carved from the middle using a laser which allows them to be placed into the lock on either side and still work. They have a distinctive pattern and are more difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has fewer grooves will help you discern a laser-cut key from a bladed traditional key. This makes the key harder to turn than the standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to open your vehicle without a lot of time and effort. They are also less likely to get stuck in locks because they have a more precise cut.
When you insert a laser-cut key into your lock, it sends a signal to the car's receiver which matches its unique pattern. This signals the car that it's the correct key, and can be started. If a criminal manages to obtain an unauthorised copy of your key, the vehicle's transmitter will not recognize it and will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys have been in use in luxury vehicles since the 1990s. They cost more to make than regular keys and require special equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. If you lose yours, an experienced locksmith is likely to be able replace it quickly and at an affordable price.
Depending on your car depending on the model, you might need to have a transponder chip programmed into the key to allow it working. It's not something you can do yourself, and dealers charge a significant amount to do it. A good locksmith should be able to program your transponder for you, although they may not have the same level of expertise as the dealer you are dealing with.
Transponder chips are found in the keys of a majority of modern cars to add an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your vehicle's specific ignition system and permit it to check that the key is authentic before you start the engine. Even if a thief succeeds in stealing the key and duplicate it, they won't be able to use it to start your car because the engine won't start in the event that it doesn't have a proper code.
Transponder Keys
Nearly every car manufactured in the last 20 years or so will have a transponder chip in it. These are radio transmitters that keep your car from starting if you don't have the correct key installed. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against auto theft because thieves had discovered a variety of ways to start cars through brute force (pushing the ignition switch with a flat screwdriver) and hot-wiring (bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip solved all of this because it could only allow the car to be turned on for a brief period of time, but also verify that there was a valid key in the ignition.
A normal transponder key will appear like a regular metal key with a plastic top. This plastic top contains the actual transponder which will transmit a signal to your car once the key is within close proximity. The signal is a serial number digital that is identical to the transponder in your car. If the signals match, you will be in a position to operate your vehicle. This is one of the most effective methods of anti-theft technologies that manufacturers of cars have implemented as it has made car theft almost impossible for anyone who doesn't have a valid key.
Depending on the model, there are different kinds of transponder keys that are available. Some have a traditional transponder chip that is housed inside the head of the key. Others come with a remote key fob that includes the transponder of the key. Key fobs usually have buttons on them that allow you to lock or unlock your car, set the alarm, and many other functions.
A locksmith can help you get an additional transponder key for your vehicle and even program it for you, should you require it. The process is typically simple and requires only just a few steps. The first step is that the new key will need to be cut with an ordinary metal key cutter, which can usually be done at any auto store. Then, the transponder key must be programmed to your specific vehicle by a professional auto locksmith. The process of programming typically takes about 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars have the remote keyless system which requires a fob. The fob sends an electronic signal to the vehicle to unlock doors or start the engine. If it's equipped, it can also unlock the boot.
It's important to note that a car key fob isn't like the typical metal key you've got on your keychain. It's a complicated piece of electronic equipment that must be correctly programmed to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. This is why you shouldn't attempt cutting your own fob. It is recommended to leave cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs tend to be small and rectangular. Some feature keys that fold inside it, much like the switchblade. This makes the fob smaller and allows it to be tucked away when not in use. There are also fobs that appear more like an ordinary key, but without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob, it can be a real trouble to obtain an alternative. It could require specialized tools or a visit to the dealer. Usually, the dealer will only offer a fob compatible with your specific model. This is because the dealer has the technology expertise to make sure a replacement fob matches up with the security system of your vehicle.
The process of obtaining the replacement key fob you need can be relatively simple if you have the correct information. You will need to know your car's year, make and model. Take along a spare key that works.
Gather the Necessary Equipment Before you begin to program your keyfob check the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have the right tools and equipment. You will be required to enter a particular mode, which may involve pressing certain buttons and turning the ignition off or on in a certain amount of times, or a combination. Some manufacturers may even use a flashing light or a sound to signal the start of programming mode.
Once you've gathered the required materials, you can bring your key fob to your nearest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We'll save your time and money since we cut your key fobs at less than the dealership. g28carkeys are also open later than the dealership, so you don't have to rush off to get your key fob cut and programmed.