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Car Key Cutting and Programming Near Me If your car key has a chip inside it and is not integrated into a key fob you can typically have it duplicated at a hardware store or box store. This is especially relevant for older keys. The majority of hardware stores do not have the equipment required to program the new key. This is why many people end up at the dealership or a locksmith. Key Cutting The majority of locksmiths and hardware shops offer key cutting as a standard service. It's the process of removing an original key and creating an identical copy. This can be accomplished in different ways, based on the type key you want to duplicate. Standard Yale keys, for example are less than a minute to cut. Mortice, also known as “Chubb” keys, can take up to 5 minutes and are harder to cut. Secure keys with a larger shank or deeper grooves can also take longer. Key cutting isn't enough for modern car keys. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to communicate with the computer system of your vehicle. This extra step is not done by key-cutting and requires a more sophisticated set of tools. If you take your current car key into a store which offers key cutting, an associate will select the appropriate key blank to match your year, make, and model. A machine will then trace the contours of the key to precisely form the blank key. After the key has been made to fit your existing car key, it is ready to use. The quality of the key you create will be determined by the type of machine used to cut the key, as well as the skills of the person operating it. Using car key cutting machine or poorly-designed machine can cause the key to break or wear out quickly. If the person is inexperienced and doesn't know how to operate or set up the machine correctly. This could lead you to make mistakes that cost you time or money in the end. Always seek advice from an expert for advice on how to avoid these problems. A trusted hardware or locksmith shop will have the finest equipment and staff available. If you choose to DIY, make sure to purchase a key machine from an established manufacturer that has been accuracy-tested. This is particularly relevant for key machines that use a key tracer as well as a cutter wheel. They are more precise than any other kind of machine. Duplicate Keys Duplicate keys are useful when you lock yourself out your home, car or safe. It can also grant access to others should you'd like, for instance friends or family who may require access to your business or home even when you're away. Having key copies of your keys can save you time and money in the long run instead of calling locksmiths for services that might be more expensive. Many hardware stores and big box retailers offer key-cutting services. They usually take just about a couple of minutes to complete the process, and they are able to cut the majority of common types of keys including keys for houses. Some stores offer key fob duplicates and replacement too. However, it is important to be aware that these kinds of copies do not contain the transponder chip in them like keys cut in a factory. NAPA Auto Parts is another reliable option. It has a vast network of locations in the United States. It can copy and program the majority of automotive keys as well as key fobs. Some of their locations have self-service kiosks that allow you to copy your keys. NAPA also provides a range of automotive-related products and services that could be a great choice for those in need of an extra key. You can also look for cutting services for keys at auto parts retailers like Pep Boys and Advance Auto Parts. Both of them can cut duplicate keys for the majority of vehicles. However, you may need to call them ahead of time to confirm their services. Key-cutting service in general merchandise and home improvement shops, such as Menards or Lowe's. When it comes to key-cutting these kinds of stores are more trustworthy than big box retailers. They have a variety of key designs that can be duplicated, and even have sports team-themed keys for those who are fans. They are also helpful for those who require an extra house key or a replacement for their shed. Transponder Keys If your car was built in the last two decades, it will likely come equipped with a transponder. A transponder, which is a tiny electronic chip, is built into your car key. Its function is to communicate with the vehicle's onboard computer to start the car when it's placed. Transponder keys, also called radio frequency keys or chip keys have made it difficult for thieves to hot wire vehicles as they require the key to be programmed to turn on and remain on. To do this the transponder sends out a low-level radio signal that contains an unique serial number. This information is sent to the onboard computer of the vehicle which then compares it with the number stored in the memory of the key. If the codes match the immobilizer on the car is turned off and it is able to start the engine. This method isn't 100% secure. Criminals have discovered ways to fool the computer system of a car into accepting a duplicate or stolen key. It's still a better option than mechanical keys. If your car requires a transponder, you'll need to cut it correctly and programmed by a skilled locksmith in the automotive industry. Some automakers will allow you to do this on your own, but it's a good idea to have an expert do it for you. This is because if you make an error in cutting the key, it can cause the computer to stop reading the chip correctly. This could result in the ignition not turning on or it may be turned on but not remain on. Many people call their car dealership for an exact copy of their keys, but this is usually expensive and difficult to manage. There are fortunately, an affordable and practical alternative for a locksmith who is professional. The greatest benefit of a locksmith is that they are certified to handle all types of car keys and programming, so you can rest at ease knowing that your vehicle will be secure and safe when you use it. Remotes The modern car key is no longer a simple piece of metal that can be cut at any self-service kiosk in the mall. They are a complex piece of electronic equipment that require to be programmed to work with your particular security system in your vehicle. This requires special tools and training of a professional locksmith. Many people contact their local dealership for this service, but end with a price that is much higher than they would at an independent auto repair shop or local auto parts store. To start a car, the majority of newer cars require a smart key. The fob is equipped with a tiny battery that transmits a signal back to the car, so it can recognize it's the right key. These batteries wear out over time and must be replaced. The keys can also break or become worn out over time. This can happen due to dropping the remote into water, putting it in pockets or bags, or just from a long day of use. These issues can cause your key to stop working at the most uncomfortable times. You may be at the pump and your key won't turn. Or perhaps you're loading groceries into the trunk and put your key in the ignition for one second, only to realize that it's gone. In these scenarios having an extra key or remote is crucial. Fortunately you can find your local Batteries Plus can get you back on the road in no time by supplying you with an alternative key fob for an affordable cost. The store you visit has key fobs for most automobiles and trucks at a lower cost than what you would buy from a dealer. Additionally, the Batteries Plus staff are on hand to assist you in selecting the correct key fob for your vehicle, and they can cut and program it for you. Bring your current key to the store so that associates can copy the correct contours. This process will only take just a few minutes, particularly because most stores stay open longer than the dealer and you don't have to quit work to accomplish this.