Where to Get Car Key Cut
Professional car key cutting services ensure a smooth start, and can help prevent any potential issues. They employ advanced equipment that guarantee precision and offer warranties on their services.
Modern cars require a special transponder chip in their key fobs to function properly. These are advanced electronic devices that can only be programmed by a dealership or an automotive locksmith.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys or the key fob breaks your first thought could be to visit your local dealer. The dealer is the official dealer of your vehicle, therefore they should be able to give you an additional key. You may be surprised by how costly these services can be. Luckily, there are many other options that can help you save money on the replacement of your key.
Car dealerships might provide a wide selection of keys for cars, but they are more expensive. They might not be able make your specific type of key. For instance, some modern cars require a special laser cut key that requires specialized equipment to originate, duplicate, and program each one. This is a service that most locksmiths do not offer and therefore must outsource.
A better alternative to the dealership is a home improvement store that provides key-making services. Hardware stores usually carry a wide variety of blanks that can be used to create different kinds of keys for cars, which means they can satisfy most needs. Moreover, these stores typically offer lower prices than dealerships.
Home improvement stores offer an array of blank car keys, but they also have the experience and tools to make keys and replacement fobs for keys. They can also make laser-cut metal keys that are more difficult to duplicate than traditional metal ones. They can also help reprogram your fobs, in the event that it is necessary.
Auto parts stores like Advanced Auto and NAPA can also produce replacement car keys. They have the tools to make transponder car keys and key fobs as well as regular house keys. However, not all locations can make these keys, so it is best to call ahead before visiting a specific location.
Some big-box stores, such as Rite Aid, offer key-making services. In fact, you can get keys for your car or a key fob for less than $15 in most locations! These stores have a huge range of blanks and even cut and program the key for you. This is only possible when the original key is equipped with a microchip and can be programmed to the vehicle's computer system.
Locksmiths
There's never a good moment to lose your car keys. If you have to need a locksmith in an emergency, an emergency locksmith is the best option to have your keys replaced and cut as fast as you can. Many automotive locksmiths provide 24/7 support to help you when you need it. They can cut any key, including transponder keys and regular keys. They also handle VAT systems on modern automobiles.
Most AutoZone locations are able to change your car key. The process is fairly simple: A representative selects the right key blank based on your year, make, and model. A machine then traces the original contours on your current key. This ensures that the replacement key will be perfectly. If your key has a computer chip built into the fob, it will need to be programmed.
Certain auto locksmiths can reprogram your keys for less than dealerships. They'll also often offer a faster turnaround and are a great option if you're in a hurry. However, a locksmith outside may not be able deal with the most modern vehicles, like the ones that have smart keys.
Walmart costs $10 on average for cutting a car key. This is a more affordable option if you only need a traditional duplicate key. Keep in mind that keys made with machines are less likely than hand-made keys to last, and they will get older. If you want your spare keys to last a long time, it's better to enlist the services of an emergency locksmith.
Certain modern cars have a smart key which activates the proximity sensors. They are the most convenient and well-liked keys, but also the hardest to duplicate if you don't have the original. Locksmiths in the automotive industry can duplicate a smart key, but you'll need to bring proof of ownership such as the registration title, title, or purchase documents. You may have to pay a tow truck cost for returning your vehicle to the dealer.
Online Key-by-VIN Suppliers
Key-by-VIN providers online can be a good alternative if you cannot get to a locksmith or dealership. These companies create keys for replacement that is a factory-original key using the VIN number. These companies charge less than an authorized locksmith or dealer but you'll require an automotive technician to pair the key.
The majority of cars manufactured from 1990 and on come with a transponder chip in the key that needs to be programmed into the vehicle in order to function. This is the reason it's essential to use a car's key code instead of the VIN when you request the key from a key-by-VIN provider online. If you use the VIN to order a key, it is likely that the key will not function when the door locks or ignition have ever been changed.
Be aware that although key-by-VIN online providers can cut keys, they are not able to deliver a programed key for your car. This will still require an auto technician, so ensure you factor this cost into your budget.
Dealers, locksmiths, and online key-by VIN suppliers are the clear winners in terms of accuracy. All of them cut keys with codes, resulting in an authentic OEM key. Contrary to this, big box stores only cut their keys using an automatic machine that can become less accurate over time and may result in a key that doesn't perform as expected.
Getting a key by VIN from a trusted dealer or locksmith will also be much cheaper than ordering one from a website. Most online resellers are sourced from overseas and use low quality parts and construction methods. Furthermore, you will not receive any type of warranty or support in the event that something happens to the key.
It is crucial to have an inventory of transponders, blank keys and remotes for each model of vehicle you work with. To save yourself time and money, you can make use of OEM manufacturers' websites to find keys for cars by VIN or make/model.
Big Box Stores
Shopping online is so convenient that you may not even want to leave your home. There are many different shopping experiences that are the same. Certain things, like cutting your car keys, is best done in person rather than using with a mouse. Many big box stores have the equipment and know-how to cut your key. While locksmith key cutting may not be as good as locksmiths or an online key-by-VIN supplier, they do have the advantage of being easy and affordable.
One of the most frequent places to have your key cut is an auto parts store. If you own an ordinary key that doesn't have a chip it's a simple and simple process. These stores have key cutting machines which can copy the contours from your current key in a matter of minutes.
Ace Hardware is a popular chain store. These chains also have key cutting machines and they are able to copy all kinds of keys. However, if you have modern keys that are part of a key fob or has a chip in it they will not be able to help.
Some of the more specialized stores, such as Menards in Midwest and Home Depot across the country are able to make duplicates of keys with chips. However, you should talk ahead to your local store and see whether they can create this type of key before you go to the store.
If you have a high-security key, you'll want to visit your nearest AutoZone location. They have the experience of technology, tools, and equipment to duplicate high-security keys including keys that are integrated into key fobs. An associate will select the correct key blank for the year and make of your vehicle. They will then use a key-cutting machine to copy your original contours. This process can take longer than a standard key but will give you peace of mind that your key is safe in the event it is stolen or lost.