The 10 Worst Getting A New Car Key Cut-Related FAILS Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented

The 10 Worst Getting A New Car Key Cut-Related FAILS Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented

Getting  automotive key cutting  Cut

An auto locksmith can save you money if as compared to a dealer. They can create replacement keys for all kinds of vehicles and models, including fobs which require programming.

Laser-cut keys have thicker shanks with less grooves. They also have transponder chips that need to be programmed into your car. This is a more complicated process and takes longer, however, it is still cheaper than visiting the dealership.

What kind of keys do I require?

The kind of keys you have is crucial when it comes to replacing lost car keys. If your car is equipped with traditional keys and is older, you can get a replacement in many hardware or locksmith stores. Keys of this kind have simple, precise ridges that are cut into one side and are simple to duplicate.

Most modern vehicles use electronic keys that have integrated transponder chips which transmits a signal the vehicle when it's placed in the ignition. This system is designed to prevent non-authorized users from opening your vehicle or opening the doors. It's more expensive to replace a smart lock if you lose it because they need a computer chip. This is why it's a good idea to keep an extra car key on hand and leave one with a family member in the event that you do lose your original.

Depending on the model and make You might not be able to replace the smart key missing with an aftermarket replacement. If your vehicle does not have the technology, you'll need to go to a dealer or call locksmith. You'll need a photo ID and proof of ownership to purchase the new car key. Then, they will need to program the key into the system of your vehicle.

The process could take as long as an hour, and it's important to note that it will be more expensive than just getting a standard key copied. The cost of laser-cut keys can vary between $50 and $100.

As you wait for your new key to be made and delivered, don't be too worried about losing it. You should always have a spare key in your pocket, or with a trusted person. Keep your eye on the keychain whenever it moves.

Consider buying an aftermarket car key online if your goal is to save money. These keys are usually priced at around 75% less than the price dealers charge. However, you will need to cut and program them to your vehicle. Contact around to find the most affordable price in your region.

How Much Time Will It Take?

If you're a person who has trouble remembering where they put their keys or is susceptible to losing keys, it's the right time to purchase an extra car key. You'll avoid the hassle of having to pay for locksmiths to arrive or having your car tow away to the dealer if you require a new key. It could take between several minutes to several hours to create an replacement key.

It could cost you upwards of $200 to get a replacement key if you lose the only one. This is because you will need to pay for the car to be towed to the dealer, who will need to order and program a new key. Additionally, you will be charged for labor charges. It's better to invest the money for a spare car key now in a time that suits you, rather instead of having the expense of replacing it when you're in need of it the most.


A locksmith or hardware store can cut traditional car keys in a short time. They typically have slightly thicker shanks and have less grooves carved out than laser-cut keys. If you require the replacement of a key fob, it's likely to take a bit longer as they must be programmed by the computer in your vehicle. In the majority of cases the most reliable auto locksmith can do this. It's best to contact them prior to the time to inquire about their prices and the time it will need to complete the job.

At most Mister Minit locations we have the tools and experience to duplicate your car keys or fobs. You'll have to bring the key you'd like duplicated along with the year, make, and MODEL of your car to determine the type of transponder chip your key has. The year, model and the make will also assist us in determining what type of key fobs you require.

If you're worried about losing your original key fob, you can also visit the dealer that makes the car brand you drive. The dealership will have to program the key fob using your car's computers in case you need a replacement. They'll need proof of ownership, like your title or registration documents to do this. You can also find a third car key as a spare and then reprogramme it yourself. You'll need to consult the owner's manual for your car to see how to do this since it varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Are There Any Limitations on the production of a key without the Original?

If you own an older car it is possible to purchase an ordinary metal key by an auto locksmith, or in some cases, even at the hardware store. This is because older vehicles do not have specialized electronic components like chips. However, newer cars may contain transponder keys that require a special laser key-cutting machine called a sidewinder to make copies of the key. Additionally, these newer keys could have programmed chips that keep your vehicle from being started without the original key in close proximity to the ignition.

If your car is equipped with one of these keys, it is important to know that you will probably have to visit an authorized dealer to have an alternative key made without the original. This can be expensive, especially in the event that the dealer wants you to have your car towing in the key to be programmed.

Contacting a locksmith is a much more affordable alternative. They can cut and program a duplicate of your car key for about half the price of dealerships. This is something you should do before losing your keys. It will save you money in the future, if you can't locate keys.

Can I get a key made at AutoZone?

Although modern cars are equipped with advanced security systems, they still rely on keys to open the car and start it. If you lose your key and need to replace it, it isn't as simple as a trip to the self service kiosk at the mall and cutting it. Modern car keys have to be programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle and include a transponder chip that is unique to the vehicle you own.

Fortunately, a lot of AutoZone locations have the technology and know-how to provide these services. If you have a key fob or even a traditional key associate at the store, they can assist you in programming it to your vehicle on-site.

A machine is used to copy contours from a working original car key. A blank key is placed on one side of the duplication machine, while an existing key is on the other side. Both are aligned with a specially-designed tool. The machine then moves the working key and the blank key back and forth and cuts out the desired shape. The new key will have the dimensions of the previous one.

When it comes to creating an extra car key, however, things can get more complicated. The year and make of your car will determine what type of key you have. It will then need to be cut by a professional locksmith in order to use in your vehicle. You can find locksmiths who can do the job at a lower cost than dealerships. Be sure to check if the locksmith is a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.

If you own an old-fashioned key, you can usually buy replacements online for less than going to a dealer and having them cut and programmed for you. You can find them by searching "(your year and year of manufacture)" on websites designed specifically for this use.

If you have a more complex key or a key fob, you'll need go to the locksmith or dealer to get it replaced. You can have a new key made by providing your VIN and proof of ownership however, the process will cost you. The best way to avoid these costs is to get an extra key created now, so you can utilize it in case of an emergency.