Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of car key cutting requires more than just bent metal. It's a skill that offers security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your existing key to an AutoZone store and an associate will duplicate the key using the correct key cutting procedure for your car's brand and model. The process of cutting keys takes just a few minutes and is less expensive than purchasing a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the most basic kind of car keys and go back to the early days of locking mechanisms for automobiles. These keys have patterns that match the pin settings of a lock to open it. Mechanical keys are available for copying at many hardware stores, however a professional locksmith equipped with the right tools will typically have greater success in creating copies that are more durable and can work with your vehicle.
A professional locksmith can also be able to create laser cut keys. They are more secure than mechanical keys due to the fact that they feature grooves on both sides. This makes it harder to make copies or if someone tries to make use of a grinder to the key, they will likely leave behind a lot of metal pieces that will not fit in your lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s to provide an extra layer of security. These keys contain a chip in the head of the key that communicates with your car to inform it that it is legitimate. If the chip inside your key is not matched to your vehicle it will not begin and will remain unresponsive. These keys are more expensive than mechanical keys and require professional programming.
Smart keys are the newest evolution in car keys. These are a combination between keys that are mechanical and wireless remote control. This lets you unlock and start your car by using the key. It also allows you to do so from a distance. A professional auto locksmith mobile can make smart keys that can be replaced for your vehicle in a matter of minutes using the latest technology.
Many people believe that they can get a replacement for a damaged or lost mechanical key at hardware stores however this isn't a good idea. The majority of chains don't have the proper equipment or highly skilled professionals to make an authentic key that works in your vehicle. It is much safer to leave the design of your key to a professional, and you will most likely save money over the long term by opting for this method.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys are more expensive to produce than standard key blanks but provide an additional layer of security for your car. They are carved from the middle using a laser which allows them to be inserted into the lock on either side and still function. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has less grooves will allow you to identify a laser-cut key from a bladed traditional key. This means the key is more difficult to turn than the standard key, making it more difficult for thieves to gain entry into your car without a lot of time and effort. These keys are also less likely to become stuck in the lock because they are more precise cut.
When you insert a laser-cut keys into your lock, it sends a signal to the car's receiver that matches the unique pattern. This signals the car that it's the right key and allows it to start. If a burglar does manage to steal an unauthorized copy of your key, the car's transmitter will not recognize it and will refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys have been in use in luxury cars since the 1990s. They cost more to produce than standard keys and require special equipment, but they provide an additional layer of security to your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace your key quickly and at a reasonable cost if you lose it.
You might need to have the transponder chip programmed into your key, based on the vehicle you own. This isn't something you can do on your own and the majority of car dealerships will charge an amount of money to do it for you. A good locksmith will be able program your transponder, but they may not have the same expertise than your local dealer.
Most newer cars come with laser-cut keys with transponder chips, which provide an additional layer of security. These chips are synchronized with your car's ignition system, which allows it to verify the key prior to beginning the engine. Even if a burglar succeeds in stealing the key and copy it however, they will not be in a position to start your car as the engine won't start if it doesn't have the proper code.
Transponder Keys
Transponder chips can be found in nearly all vehicles built in the last 20 years. These are essentially radio transmitters that prevent your car from starting without the proper key in place. This was a major breakthrough in the fight against car theft as thieves had developed many ways to start cars using brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using screwdrivers with flat blades) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip was the solution to all of this since it allowed the car to be turned on for a short period of time. It also verified that there was a key in place.
A regular transponder keys will look like a regular metal key with a transparent top. The plastic top houses the actual transponder, which will send the signal to your car when the key is close enough. This signal contains an electronic serial number which is matched to the transponder inside your car. If the signals are compatible the car's transponder, it will allow you to operate it. This is the best anti-theft system that the car manufacturer can employ as it makes car theft almost impossible for anyone who does not have an official key.
There are a variety of types of transponder keys that can be used in your vehicle, based on the model. Some of them have the traditional transponder chip which is contained in the head of the key. Some have an electronic key fob that has the transponder of the key. Key fobs typically feature buttons that allow you to lock or unlock your vehicle and set the alarm and many other functions.
go!! can help you acquire an updated transponder key to your car, and can program it for you, should you require it. The process is generally simple and involves several steps. First, the new key has to be cut with an ordinary metal key cutter, which can be done at any auto store. The transponder keys blanks will then have to be programmed by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. The programming process is usually very quick and only takes around 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars use an electronic keyless entry system that requires fob. The key fob transmits a signal to your vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine. It also opens the trunk, if equipped.
Keep in mind that the car fob is different from the conventional keys that you might have on your keychain. It's an intricate piece of electronic equipment that must be programmed correctly to be compatible with the specific vehicle you have. It is not recommended to cut your key fob yourself. It is always recommended to take your key fob to an expert to cut and program it.
Fobs are usually small and rectangular. Some come with a key that folds inside it, much like the switchblade. This lets the fob be smaller and to be stored away when not in use. There are fobs that don't have the foldable feature that look like a regular-sized key.
If you lose your key fob it could be a major trouble to obtain replacement. It may require special tools or a trip to the dealer. Dealers typically only offer a key fob that is compatible with your model. The dealer has the technical knowledge to make sure that a replacement fob is compatible with your vehicle's security system.
Fortunately, the process of getting the new key fob you want is relatively simple when you have the correct information. First, you have to know the year, model and year of your car. You should also have a spare key to bring along.
Make sure you have the required equipment Before you attempt to program your keyfob review the instructions supplied by the manufacturer to ensure that you have the right tools and equipment. You'll need to enter a special mode that may require turning the ignition off and on at a specific number of times, triggering certain buttons or the combination of both. Some manufacturers may even use an illuminated light or sound to signal the entry into programming mode.
Once you've collected the necessary materials, you'll be able to bring your key fob to the nearest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We can assist you in saving time and money by cutting your key fobs at a much more reasonable price than the dealership. We are open later than the dealership so you don't have hurry to get your keyfob programed and cut.