In general, losing a car key is a huge loss, anxiety, and frustration, Sometimes with an absentminded just breathing, an intentionally misplaced key is a lost key, or even something worse; beating the hell out of you, and the important thing is being out of a car, or it is the saddest thing parked in a garage. The average car holder asks this question, “Is it possible to make a key without having the original?”
The solution is automobile key duplication or retrieval from a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the automobile, cutting keys from the Vehicle Identification Number of the automobile even in the absence of spare, cutting records. This method is perfectly valid and accurate, and the reason why it has earned so much regard from licensed locksmiths and automobile dealerships.
AAA says that more than 4 million drivers in North America have problems with their car keys every year, such as being locked out or losing their keys. Getting a new key has become harder with the rise of electronic keys and smart fobs. However, VIN-based key cutting makes the process faster and more reliable.
We’ll explain everything you need to know about VIN key cutting in this guide: what it is, how it works, its benefits, common problems, and why you should hire a reliable locksmith like Keyitlocks to do it.
What Is a VIN Key?
A Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the unique 17-character ‘code’ associated with each car. It is the fingerprint of the vehicle. A vehicle’s VIN is not shared with any other car in the entire world. This code contains important information about your car like:
- Manufacturer
- Model and year
- Engine type
- Plant of production
- Serial number
The key is the car’s VIN does more than identify the vehicle in a database. It also corresponds to the key code in the manufacturer’s database that includes the specifications of how to cut a key in accordance with the car’s locking and ignition system.
For more details on how locksmiths actually use VIN-based information to create replacement keys, check out our service page on Key Cut by VIN Number.
Why VIN Key Cutting Is Useful (Especially When You’ve Lost All Keys)
Conventional key duplication processes rely on having a physical key on hand. But, what is the case if you misplaced all of your keys? This is where VIN key cutting really shines as a way to save lives.
Here are some of the main reasons why people turn to VIN key cutting:
- No original key required: Perfect if you’ve misplaced your last spare.
- High accuracy: Because it’s based on manufacturer codes, the new key is precise.
- Security & verification: Locksmiths confirm your ownership before cutting, protecting against theft.
- Convenience: No need to replace your locks or ignition the VIN unlocks everything.
According to research conducted by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), key related problems feature in the top 5 reasons for requesting roadside assistance in the US each year. For a good number of motorists, having a key cut by VIN would be more than just a luxury, it would provide a sense of comfort and relaxation especially in times when one is not at home.
How VIN Key Cutting Works: Step by Step
Let’s look at the process more closely, breaking it down into easy steps that both car owners and locksmiths can follow.
1. Find Your VIN
The first step is locating your car’s VIN. Common places include:
- On the dashboard (visible through the windshield on the driver’s side)
- On the driver’s door frame sticker
- In your vehicle registration documents
- On your insurance paperwork
A lot of drivers don’t know that this number is already on their insurance card or in their glove compartment. Having it close by can save you a lot of time in an emergency.
2. Decode the VIN
A professional locksmith or dealership can get your car’s key code from a secure database once you give them your VIN. This key code is like a digital map for your key.
3. Choose the Correct Key Blank
There is a key blank that works with every car model. Before cutting, the locksmith checks that the blank matches the key code for your car. This makes sure that the new key will fit in the door and ignition locks.
4. Cut the Key
The locksmith employs advanced technology in key-cutting machines when creating a new key that complies with the specifications provided by the manufacturer.
5. Program the Key (for Modern Vehicles)
Most modern cars use transponders or smart keys with chips linked to the immobilizer. After cutting, the locksmith programs the chip so the car recognizes the new key.
6. Test and Verify
Locksmiths will thoroughly test the key before giving it to you to make sure it starts the engine, unlocks doors, and works just like the original.
Challenges and Limitations of VIN Key Cutting
Although VIN key cutting is highly effective, it does come with some limitations. Here are some of them:
- Older cars: Some cars made decades ago may not have key records linked to their VINs.
- Vehicles with a lot of security: Some high-end or specialty models make it harder to get to key codes for extra security.
- Wrong information: Giving the wrong VIN or proof of ownership can slow things down.
- Cost: VIN key cutting can be more expensive than basic duplication, especially if programming is required.
Also, keep in mind, some dealerships charge more for certain VIN based services. Therefore, Keyitlocks and some other independent locksmiths are preferred, because experience and faster service at fair prices are valued. In any case, the majority of vehicles can now be easily and quickly attended to by skilled locksmiths.
Choosing the Right Locksmith for VIN Key Cutting
To begin with, every locksmith has their own set of skills and services they can provide. In this case, paying attention to the following will help you choose the best person for the job.
- Automotive locksmithing experience: Many professionals tend to cut keys based on the VIN everyday.
- Portable services: A locksmith that has the ability to come to you will minimize hassle and save you time.
- No hidden charges: Choose a locksmith who is willing to provide the offer price and doesn’t offer vague counters.
- Verification and licensing: Reputable locksmiths always require proof of ownership before chopping a key based on a VIN.
- Favorable reviews and recommendations: Provided that customer experience usually guides on reliability and professionalism, this should help as well.
As an example, Keyitlocks possess all of these qualities. Their locksmiths offer prompt and secure VIN key cutting and demonstrate great experience and use of advanced technology.
Common Myths About VIN Key Cutting
There are misconceptions about VIN key cutting that are far from reality. Below are the most notable misconceptions explored:
- There is no way VIN key cutting can get to the keycode file as key cutting is a security breach. That is why locksmiths or dealerships ask the owner to provide and/or submit registration, insurance, or ID to prove ownership before accessing the key code.
- Replacement of other locks accompanying the ignition is often more expensive and time-consuming than cutting a key using the VIN.
- Any vehicle, not just a brand new one, is not excluded from VIN key cutting. Almost all cars and trucks produced in the last few decades have available key codes connected to the VIN.
- Closing a deal is just as simple as going to a locksmith. Dealerships are not the sole providers of the same level of precision for cutting keys, and often provide the service in lesser time for a more affordable price.
FAQs
Q1. How long does VIN key cutting take?
Most locksmiths can cut and program a key in less than an hour, but it depends on the make and model of the car and any extra security features it has.
Q2. Is VIN key cutting safe and legal?
Yes. Locksmiths follow strict security rules to make sure that only the rightful owner gets a new key, as long as you can prove ownership.
Q3. Can VIN key cutting work for smart keys and fobs?
Certainly. Even newer vehicles with smart fobs or transponders are easily catered for, as locksmiths are still able to cut the physical key as well as program the chip to the vehicle.
Q4. Should I go to a dealership instead of a locksmith?
You do not have to. On average, dealerships take longer and charge more. A certified locksmith is able to perform the same work, but faster and cheaper.
Q5. What factors affect the cost of replacing a key by VIN?
The Primary factor heard in the records is the automobile make and model and corresponding the redundancy class attributes and quality attributes level of data needed for a vehicle key programming.
For more answers, explore our dedicated Automotive Locksmith Services page.
Conclusion
It is never a pleasant experience to lose your car keys. But with the service of “ VIN key cutting”, you do not have to change the locks or the ignition. Instead, you can go back to driving. A locksmith can create and program a new key using the car’s VIN, doing so with great accuracy and security.
No matter whether the keys are lost, stolen, or you want a spare, VIN cutting is the best answer.
