If you lose your car key, it can be very stressful. You will need to find someone who can cut and program a new car key.
The majority of Mister Minit shops have the equipment necessary to duplicate standard keys and fobs for cars with push button starters. Bring the original key and the year, make and model for proper precision copying and programming.
What is a vehicle key?
There are a variety of keys, ranging from mechanical key systems to key fobs. However, most car keys can be categorized into a few basic categories.
A standard car key, for example, is a standard key without any encoding. It also does not include any other features such as an integrated chip. These types of car keys can be cut with a standard key duplicater and are generally very affordable to make. They are typically found on older cars and do not require any special encryption, as do many modern key systems.
Different types of car keys are more sophisticated and may include a microchip or other features to control the locking or start functions of the vehicle. These keys can usually be copied at a local locksmith shop or auto repair shop however, they're generally more expensive than the standard options. They're also a lot more difficult to reprogram yourself which is why you'll typically need to visit a dealer or key shop to have this completed.
Another type of car key with a higher level of security is a high security or side-winder key. These keys were introduced around the mid 1970s, and are very similar to regular mechanical car keys. The only difference is that the keyblade has grooves on both sides. These keys aren't as simple as traditional keys to duplicate and require a key duplicator capable of cutting these types of key.
There are also transponder keys or smart keys, which have an embedded chip that communicates with the engine immobilizer. These vehicles are generally more difficult to start in the event that the key is damaged or lost, so they're also more likely to be locked out. These key systems may be more difficult to repair in the event that the key is lost or stolen and usually require specialized equipment only available at the dealership. Mister Minit locations close to you might have a technician available to cut and program an additional key for you, based on the make and model of your vehicle.
How do car keys function?
If you own a vehicle you must always have an extra key. You never know when it could be required. You might not know the many other uses this tiny piece of plastic can serve for you. Here are some hidden benefits of the car key fob that you might not have considered before:
There are a variety of keys and automobiles available today, but all work the same way. The basic types are the plain-jane, bare-bones, and machine cut metal keys that are still in use in older vehicles. These are the kind of keys that are able to be replaced at any locksmith for a small cost. These keys are simple to copy, which is why it was so easy to steal automobiles in the past.
Transponder keys are the next step in car keys. The key is equipped with a transmitter that sends the code to an internal receiver. The receiver responds by unlocking your doors. They are more difficult to reproduce because they require a chip inside the key that has to be programmed specifically for your vehicle.
Finding a new key for these types of cars requires a specialized tool that is able to read the chip and match it with your car. If you're looking to replace these keys, you'll have to bring in your original key and get it copied professionally.
They are available at most AutoZone stores that provide key duplication. The original key is placed on the one side of a machine and aligned with the help of a special tool which acts as a template. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine and both are guided across a cutting area simultaneously to create a perfect copy of the original.
Some locations offer remote key programming and replacement. These services typically take a bit longer and can be quite expensive. If you are getting these kinds of keys made, it is recommended to keep the spare key in a safe location that isn't in the same place as your other keys. This will prevent you from losing it and needing these costly services again in the future.
How can I cut a car key?
Many AutoZone locations offer key cutting for cars for all models. An associate will pick the correct key blank for your year, model and model to replicate the original car key's contours using a precise key cutting machine that is on-site. The process will take only just a few minutes for the most basic keys, and is far cheaper than buying an exchange at the dealer.
The same can be said in the case of replacing a lost vehicle key fob. Modern key fobs have more than just a piece metal. They also have transponder chips that must be programmed in order to connect to the security system in your vehicle. To do this the key fob has to be linked to the vehicle by using its diagnostics system.
To avoid this issue you can purchase a replacement key fob online instead of a traditional key. These replacements are often available for less than the cost of buying a brand new one at your local dealer, and they have pre-programmed transponder chips that are ready to be paired to your car's computer.
A spare car key is useful, particularly if you get locked out of your vehicle or get involved in an accident. It is crucial to have an extra car key that is cut and programmed to ensure that you can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Mister Minit can duplicate most car keys. However, it's recommended to bring the car key together with the year, model and make of the vehicle to ensure the most precise results. A standard key can be duplicated in a matter of minutes, but it can take up to an hour for a more complicated key fob to be duplicated and programmed. We recommend calling ahead in these cases to determine how long it will take.
How do I get a car key programmed?
The best method to avoid being stuck with no car keys is to make sure you have an extra. Store it somewhere other than your keychain to make it easier to find. Try to make it a routine to empty your pockets each time you leave the car. This will stop you from forgetting your keys at the supermarket or dropping them while loading something into the trunk.
You don't want your keys to be damaged or stolen. If you do find yourself with a damaged or stolen key, it is crucial to see an expert as soon as you can. This will enable them to repair the issue quickly so that you can drive once more.
Visit your local AutoZone if you need to replace keys. They will have an extensive selection of remotes and keys for your vehicle. They'll be able to match your existing key to the correct key blank and trace it with a precise cutting machine on-site. They will even help you program the new key to your vehicle. This is quick and affordable when you compare it to a dealership. Visit car key cut to save.
