Where to Get Car Key Cut

A professional car key cutting service ensures an easy start and avoids potential issues. They employ advanced equipment to guarantee precision and offer warranties on their services.

For most modern cars it is a transponder chip that is required on the key fob. These are sophisticated electronic devices that must be programmed by a dealership or a locksmith.

Dealerships


Your first thought may be to visit your local auto dealer in case you lose the key or your fob breaks. The dealer is the official dealer of your vehicle, so they should have the ability to give you an additional key. You may be surprised by how costly these services can be. There are other ways to save money on key replacements.

While car dealerships offer an extensive selection of car keys and key fobs, they typically charge more than other outlets. They might not be able to make your particular type of key. Certain newer vehicles require laser-cut keys that requires specialized equipment to duplicate, program, and create. Most locksmiths do not offer this service and must outsource it to a third party.

An alternative to the dealership is a home improvement store that offers key-making services. G28 of hardware stores stock a large variety of blanks for different kinds of keys for cars, so they are able to meet the majority of requirements. In addition, they typically offer lower prices than the dealership.

Home improvement stores offer various keys for cars that are blank, but they also have the expertise and tools to make replacement key fobs and keys. They can create laser-cut keys that are harder to duplicate than traditional metal ones. They can also reprogram your fobs if needed.

Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the equipment to create transponder car keys and key fobs as well as standard house keys. You'll need to call ahead if you want these keys made.

Some big-box stores like Rite Aid, offer key-making services. You can even have an auto key made for less than $15 in most stores! These stores offer a wide range of blanks and will cut and program your key for you. This is only possible in the event that the original key has a microchip that can be programmed to the vehicle's computer system.

Locksmiths

There's never a great time to lose your car keys. If you lose your car keys the best thing to do is call an emergency locksmith. They will quickly cut and replace your keys. In a lot of areas automotive locksmiths are available 24 hour service to help out in a bind. They can cut any key, including transponder keys as well as standard keys. They also handle VAT systems on modern automobiles.

Most AutoZone locations are able to replace your car keys. The process is fairly simple: An associate selects the right key blank based on the year, make and model. A machine then trace the original contours of the current key. This ensures that the replacement key is perfectly. If your key has an embedded chip inside the fob, it will most likely require programming using the computer in your vehicle.

Some auto locksmiths have the ability to reprogram your key at a much lower cost than the dealership. They also provide an expedited turnaround time which is a great option for those in urgent need of help. However, a locksmith outside may not be able deal with the most modern vehicles, like those with smart keys.

Walmart charges an average of $10 for cutting a car key. This is a cheaper option if you just require a standard duplicate key. It's important to remember, though, that keys made using machines are less likely to last long and will wear out over time. If you wish to have your spare keys last a long time, it's better to seek out the services of a professional emergency locksmith.

Certain cars today have a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. They're the most popular and practical keys, however they're also the most difficult to replace when you don't have an original. Most automotive locksmiths will duplicate a smart-key, but you must bring evidence of ownership, such as a registration or title or purchase documentation. You may also need to pay for the tow truck to bring your vehicle back to the dealership.

Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers

If you are unable to reach the dealership or a locksmith, online key-by-VIN suppliers provide a quick and easy way to create a spare car key. These companies create a replacement car key that is a factory original with the VIN number. They are less expensive than a locksmith or dealer but you'll require an automotive technician to pair the key with your vehicle.

Most cars made from 1990 and later have a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to work. It is crucial to use the car key code rather than the VIN when purchasing an online key from a key-by VIN provider. If you are using the VIN to order keys, it's likely that the key will not work in the event that the ignition or door locks have ever been changed.

It's also important to keep in mind that, even though online key-by-VIN providers can cut keys, they can't provide you with a key that's programmed to your car. This task will still require an auto technician, so make sure you factor this cost into your budget.

Dealers, locksmiths and online key-by VIN suppliers are the clear winners in terms of accuracy. They all cut their keys with code, which is what gives you an authentic OEM-cut key. Big box stores on the other hand utilize an automated machine to cut their keys. The machine may become less precise over time and could result in a key which doesn't work properly.

A key purchased online is more expensive than those purchased from a reputable dealer or locksmith. Most online resellers are sourced from overseas and use low quality parts and construction methods. In addition, you won't receive any kind of warranty or assistance if something goes wrong with the key.

Maintaining a supply of blank keys, remotes and transponders in stock for every car model you service is essential. To save yourself time and money, you can make use of OEM manufacturers' websites to find car key codes using VIN or make/model.

Big Box Stores

In the age of online shopping, you may think that there is no reason to leave the comfort of your home. There are many different shopping experiences that are identical. Certain things, such as cutting keys for your car, are better done in person rather than clicking with a mouse. There are many big box stores that have the equipment and know how to copy your key properly. While these stores may not be as reliable as a locksmith or an online key-by-VIN provider, they do have the advantage of being convenient and affordable.

One of the most frequent places to get your key cut is an auto parts store. If you own a standard key that does not have chip it's a quick and simple procedure. These stores have key cutting machines which can replicate the contours of your existing key in just a few minutes.

Another option is to go to a chain hardware store like Ace Hardware. These chains have key cutting machines and can duplicate most types. However, if you have an older key that is part of a key fob or is equipped with a chip, these stores will not be able to help.

A few of the more specialist hardware stores, such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot nationwide, have the ability to make key copies that are chip-related. However, you should talk ahead to the store closest to you and ask whether they can make this kind of key for you prior to you go to the store.

You should visit the nearest AutoZone if you have a key with high security. They have the tools, knowledge and technology to duplicate the majority kinds of high-security keys including those integrated into a key fob. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, model the model, and make the key cutting machine to copy the original shape of your current key. This process will take a bit longer than a standard key, but it will give you assurance that your keys are secure if it gets lost or stolen.