Where to Get Car Keys Cut

It is crucial to get your car keys cut. This can save you a significant amount of money at the dealer. It also prevents you from being stuck without a working key.

Modern keys contain transponders which must be programmed to work with the vehicle. Luckily that your local AutoZone has the tools to make these key replacements for less than the cost.

What kind of key do I need?

There are a few 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. These keys are commonly found in older automobiles.

A double-sided or four-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 can assist in preventing break-ins since they require additional strength to open the lock.

Transponder keys are a second type of key. They have an embedded microchip that is programmed to start your vehicle. This technology reduces theft because the key is only compatible with the particular vehicle. Transponder keys are more expensive than traditional or mechanical keys, but they provide additional security.

The majority of the time, if you require a replacement key you can find your local AutoZone store will have the right parts and knowledge to do it immediately. You just need to provide them with the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle and they will handle it for you.

Some modern cars have remote controls that have to be programmed into the computer of the vehicle to function. This requires specialized software and tools. Although many prefer to call their dealer for this service, it's not always necessary. You can also search the internet for replacement keys and fobs from the aftermarket at much less cost than what you'd spend at a dealership. But before you do this be aware that these keyfobs are susceptible to being stolen, so be sure to choose a reliable source.

Where can I get a key cut for me?

The majority of auto locksmiths can cut standard car keys. They will need to know the year and make of your vehicle to give you a suitable key blank, which they cut using precision machinery on-site. However, certain modern car keys, like fobs, also contain transponder chips built-in that require specialized programming for the specific vehicle. Home Depot and similar stores may be able copy these keys, but they don't have the tools needed to copy the chip or program it.

The standard procedure for duplicating keys for a traditional auto key involves an associate choosing the correct blank key, and positioning it next to your existing key as a template. The initial contours of the key are mapped by a machine to make a duplicate. Bring your original key if it has scratches. These will be incorporated into your new key.

Mister Minit stores have the special equipment needed to duplicate the keys of most automobiles. It is crucial to provide the year and make of your car, together with your key or remote to ensure that we select the appropriate blank for your replacement. Many stores can also program the new key if the vehicle is one with a push-button start feature.

What equipment do I need?

Modern key blades require precision tooling to ensure the highest quality cut required by modern ignitions. Cutting a new car key is more complex than simply copying an existing one and requires specialised equipment that is only available from authorized key cutters, locksmiths or hardware stores equipped with the right tools to handle the task.

The majority of automobiles sold in Australia come with a transponder chips embedded in the key fob. It must be programmed into your vehicle prior to it being able to be used. This is a security measure that started in the 90's to fight the rising theft of cars in Australia and has since become the norm for all new vehicles that are sold today.

This can be a time-consuming and expensive process that can be costly and time-consuming. A spare or replacement key must be laser cut, and then programmed for your particular car. Fortunately most Mister Minit locations have the special equipment and know-how to handle this for you and all you need is your current working key that you want duplicated and, if possible, the year, make and model of your car so that we can determine the correct code to program your new key.

If you own a newer vehicle, it might be worth having an extra key cut for your car with a push button start feature with a key fob (which can be programmed to the vehicle independently). Most Mister Minit shops can quickly and easily cut and program a replacement or spare key. All you need is your car keys and, if it is possible the year, make and models of both keys, so that we can determine the key that has a transponder chip and have it properly programmed to your vehicle.

Can I cut a key by myself?

Many hardware stores and big box retailers provide a key-cutting service for a small fee. They use an instrument that follows the original contours of your existing key to make an exact replica. This method is suitable on older keys that do not contain a chip. Modern automobiles, however, require the key fob to be programmed, which is not an easy job and requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Locksmiths are better equipped to handle this type of work, because they have the right equipment and tools.

You can also go to a key-cutting kiosk such as one run by KeyMe. They are convenient, however they are not able to cut all types of keys. Keys that are common can be copied, but other specialty keys need to be sent in for processing. It is not recommended to duplicate a key that has the words "Do Not Duplicate". If this is the case, you'll have contact a locksmith for help.


A locksmith can also provide the convenience of visiting your office or home. They can cut a key quickly and reprogram your fob, if needed. It is not necessary to travel to the store and wait in an endless line.

Dealerships are experts in cars but not necessarily in keys. They have their own mechanics and interior technology experts but cutting keys is not their expertise. Dealerships are big corporations that adhere to strict guidelines to maximize their profits. They report to car companies, who in turn, report to investors and shareholders that expect monetary gains every quarter. This is not conducive to providing excellent customer service, particularly when it comes time to cut the car keys.

Where can read more have a locksmith cut me a key?

You can get keys cut at hardware stores or self-service kiosks to copy keys, but the best option is a locksmith business. They are licensed, skilled and have the equipment necessary to duplicate the majority of keys. In addition, they can assist you in programming a brand new car key fob or transponder chip.

The original key is used as a template to cut standard keys. A blank key is placed on the opposite side and both keys move across the machine's specialized cutter, creating a copy of the original key. For certain types of keys such as car keys or key fobs, the process can take longer because they need to be programmed to work with your vehicle.

Certain keys bear some keys have a "do not duplicate" mark on them, but it's just a security measure to prevent unauthorized copying. This does not mean the key can't be copied however, it could take longer because a locksmith will have to inspect the key to ensure it's not damaged.

Some keys are restricted and require proof of ownership in order to copy or cut them. This is usually due to the fact that they have unique mechanical characteristics or have a peculiar shape and is intended to ensure that they are not used to steal objects or get into secure locations.

You'll need to call the local locksmith to find out whether they are able cut these keys. You can also visit their website to check whether the locksmith has the necessary equipment and expertise. If they do, expect to pay a bit more than a standard key cut at an hardware store or a self-service kiosk, but it will be cheaper and less stressful than replacing keys for your car that have been lost.