3 Reasons 3 Reasons Why Your Get Car Key Cut Is Broken (And How To Fix It)
Where to Get Car Key Cut
Professionally cut car keys for professional services will ensure a smooth start and can help prevent any potential issues. They use advanced machines to ensure precision and offer warranties on their services.
Most modern cars require a special transponder chip within the key fob in order to function correctly. These are sophisticated electronic components that can only be programmed by the dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys or the key fob breaks, your first thought might be to visit your local dealer. The dealer is the official dealer of your vehicle so they should have the ability to provide you with an extra key. You may be surprised by the cost these services can be. Luckily, there are many other options that can help you save money on replacements for your key.
While car dealerships offer a wide selection of keys for cars and key fobs, they typically charge more than other outlets. Plus, they may not be able to make the exact type of key you require. For instance, certain newer cars require a special laser cut key that requires special equipment to create duplicates, create, and program each one. The majority of locksmiths do not provide this service and have to outsource the process.
An alternative to a dealership is a home improvement store that provides key-making services. Most hardware stores carry an array of blanks for different types of car keys, so they are able to meet the majority of needs. They are generally less expensive than dealerships.
Home improvement stores sell various keys for cars They also have the expertise and tools to make keys and key fobs that are replacements. They have the ability to make laser-cut keys, which are much harder to copy than traditional metal keys. They can also reprogram your fobs if needed.
Auto parts stores such as Advanced Auto and NAPA make replacement keys. They have the tools to make transponder car keys and key fobs, as well as regular house keys. You'll need to call ahead if you want keys made.
Some big box stores, such as Rite Aid, also have key-making services. In fact, you can have an auto key or key fob for less than $15 at most locations! These stores offer a wide range of blanks and even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible in the event that the original key has a microchip and can be programmed to the vehicle's computer system.
Locksmiths
There's never a good moment to lose your car keys. But if you do, an emergency locksmith is the best option to have your keys replaced and cut in the shortest time possible. Many locksmiths for automotive provide 24/7 service in order to assist you in times of need it. They can cut any kind of key, from transponder to standard, and they'll also handle VAT systems for newer vehicles.
Most AutoZone stores will replace your car keys. The procedure is fairly straightforward: an associate chooses the right key blank based on your year and make, as well as the model, then uses a machine to trace the original contours of your current key. This ensures your replacement key will be perfectly. If the key you are replacing has an embedded chip inside the fob, though, it will likely need to be programmed with the vehicle's computer.
Some auto locksmiths can reprogram your keys for less cost than a dealership. They also provide a quicker turnaround which is a great option if you are in a hurry. However, an outside locksmith may not be able to operate on the most sophisticated cars, such as those with smart keys.
The average car key is $10 to cut at Walmart and is therefore a more affordable option for those who just need a traditional key duplicated. Be aware that keys made by machines are less likely than hand-made ones to last and will be damaged over time. If you want your spare keys to last a long time it's better to hire the help of an emergency locksmith.
Some modern cars come with a smart key that activates the proximity sensors. They're the most popular and convenient keys, but they are also the most difficult to replace if you don't have the original. The majority of locksmiths in the automotive industry will duplicate a smart-key but you'll need evidence of ownership, like a registration, title or purchase paperwork. You may have to pay a tow truck cost to return your car to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
If you can't get to the dealership or a locksmith, online key-by VIN suppliers offer a convenient way to create an extra car key. These companies make a replacement car key that is a factory-original key using the VIN number. They cost less than a locksmith or dealer, but you will need an automotive technician to connect the key to your vehicle.
Most cars from 1990 and upwards have a special transponder chip in the key that needs to be programmed into the vehicle in order to function. It is essential to use the car key code, not the VIN when ordering an online key through a key-by-VIN service. If you use the VIN to order a key, it is likely that the key won't work when the door lock or ignition have ever been changed.
It's also important to note that, despite the fact that online key-by VIN suppliers can cut your keys, they are unable to give you a key programmed to your vehicle. This will still require an auto technician, so make sure you add this cost into your budget.
The most reliable in terms of accuracy are dealers, locksmiths and online key-by-VIN providers. All of them cut keys using codes, which results in an authentic OEM key. Big box stores on the other hand, only use an automatic machine to cut their keys. The machine may become less precise over time and result in a key that doesn't function properly.
The process of obtaining a key using VIN from a trusted dealer or locksmith will also be less expensive than purchasing one online. Most online resellers source their products from overseas and make use of low-quality parts and construction methods. You won't receive any support or warranty in the event that the key breaks.
Maintaining a supply of remotes, keys, and transponders available for each model of car you service is a necessity. To save yourself time and money, use the manufacturers' OEM websites to search for car key codes by VIN or model or make.
Big Box Stores
Online shopping is so convenient, you might not need to leave your home. However, not all shopping experiences are identical. Certain things, like cutting your car keys are best done in person, rather than using with a mouse. There are many big box stores that have the equipment and know how to get your key copied properly. Although these stores might not be as reliable as a locksmith or a web-based key-by-VIN supplier, they do offer the benefit of being convenient and affordable.
A car parts store is the most popular location to have your key cut. It is a simple and quick procedure if you have a standard, non-chipped key. The majority of these stores have key cut ting machines that can duplicate the contours of your existing key in just a few minutes.
Another common option is at a chain hardware store such as Ace Hardware. These chains also have key cutting machines, and they are able to copy all types of keys. These chains cannot assist you when your key is part of a fob or is chip.
Some of the more specialized stores, such as Menards in the Midwest and Home Depot across the country are able to make duplicates of keys with chips. However, you should talk ahead to the store closest to you and ask whether they can create this kind of key for you before you go to the store.
You should visit the nearest AutoZone when you have a key with high security. AutoZone stores have the tools, know-how and technology to duplicate most types of high-security keys, including those integrated into key fobs. An associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model, and model and use the key cutting machine to copy the original shape of your current key. This will take a few more minutes than a standard key, but it will give you peace of mind knowing that your key is secure should it be lost or stolen.