Code Based Key Cutting Service

[funkymonkey]

Need to get a new key cut as I only ever got one key for my car and constantly live in fear of losing it one day.

I came across this guy based in ACT (http://www.keys4classics.com) who does code based key cuts using 300ZX lookalike blanks (Z32, R32, S13, A31 etc all use the same key shape... the code is X followed by some numbers).

Basically this gurantess a perfect fit for the lock, and means that any defects on your existing key aren't carried over to the new key because its not copied directly.

Now this guy charges about $25 all up for two keys... does anyone know any other place that offers alternative key designs and can do code based cuts... or any places that can do them cheaper? Someone told me that Nissan do free code based cuts if you gave them a key about 10 years ago... do they still offer that service?

[RBwhatever]

Any good locksmith can cut you a set of keys by code. You just give them the key number (eg. X0000) and he'll cut you a set for roughly the price you stated. We do a set for $21.50.

As for key designs, the aftermarket key brand we use is Silca and they only come in a few different generic shapes for our cars. I don't usually stock the plastic headed ones just the plain metal head.

And no, nissan won't do you a free key service.

Any questions about keys shan just ask

Edited October 17, 2007 by KeyMaker

[funkymonkey]

haha didn't think we'd have a key cutter on the forum.

what about if I got a Nismo or Autech key (with the blade for R32's), the process is the same for code cutting right? like are you guys aren't restricted by the shape of the key head?

I'd prefer to go local to save on postage n all that, but how do you tell who can do code cuts and who can't other than by asking? and is there a specific machine that they need to do Nissan codes?

[RBwhatever]

Yeah any nismo or autech or even a gtr key with the same blade as an r32 will be the same process as for a standard skyline key blank. They might charge you a bit extra, because of the extra risk involved in cutting an expensive key.

The only hitch might be if the locksmith refuses to cut the key because of the cost of the blank if you provide a nismo key. If he says this, then he is probably incompetent anyway, go to a better locksmith.

The key head doesn't restrict the key from being cut either. Heck I had a 300zx key for my N13 Pulsar when I had it.

There are a few different machines that cut these keys by code, they're a machine that does hundreds of different keys, kind of like a universal key machine. But any proper locksmith will have this machine as its vital to have.

Don't go to shopping centre key cutters/hardware stores/coles/Mr Minit.

Edited October 17, 2007 by KeyMaker

[funkymonkey]

Don't go to shopping centre key cutters/hardware stores/coles/Mr Minit.

lol you just cut pretty much everyone i could have thought of off the list. so is there a list of key cutters who can do code cuts somewhere?

[RBwhatever]

Whereabouts are you living? Dandenong or Concord?

[funkymonkey]

haha in VIC atm, dandenong

[djr81]

Is the code you are referring to the one the compliance shop grinds off the key before you get the damn thing?

[RBwhatever]

Yellow Pages, Dandenong Locksmiths

Go to the most reputable one, preferably one with a shop front.

RAM Security Locksmiths looks to be pretty good. Give them a call first and ask for a price. Try and talk to a tradey, as office chicks (if they answer the phone) usually know jack all.

Do you have your Key Code?

PS. If you want those 300zx lookalike keys plastic headed or plain head, they should be able to get them in for you. I can even get them too & they're cheap as chips.

Edited October 18, 2007 by KeyMaker

[RBwhatever]

Is the code you are referring to the one the compliance shop grinds off the key before you get the damn thing?

Yeah probably. Its a bit of a security issue. Its best not to disclose this number to anyone other than a locksmith.

Edited October 17, 2007 by KeyMaker

[funkymonkey]

yeah i got my key code, will give em a call.

djr81, the code should be on the inside of your key barrel as well, in case its not on your key, its in the format XNNNN where the N's can be anything from 0001 to 8000. not really confidence inspiring knowing that one in 8000 keys can open your car.

[HackerX]

Weren't there a certain model of aussie made car where it was 1 in 5?

I'll take 1 in 8000 over 1 in 5

[funkymonkey]

a 5c piece opened AND started my old Mitsubishi Colt

[RBwhatever]

yeah i got my key code, will give em a call.

djr81, the code should be on the inside of your key barrel as well, in case its not on your key, its in the format XNNNN where the N's can be anything from 0001 to 8000. not really confidence inspiring knowing that one in 8000 keys can open your car.

The chances of you even meeting someone in your lifetime that has the same key for their car out of 8000 variations is pretty slim.

djr81-otherwise your key can be decoded. If you PM me a close up pic of your key, I can decode it and give you a key code. Thats providing the key isn't totally flogged out.

[jrocket]

Hey I also need another key made for my car but i was thinking maybe i could upgrade the lock in it perhaps. Is it possible to fit anotther lock out of a newer nissan to the R33. I just feel that the current ignition lock in my car is a bit of a weak point in my security. I thought of just adding in a key code pad or something as a bit of extra security instead.

[RBwhatever]

Hey I also need another key made for my car but i was thinking maybe i could upgrade the lock in it perhaps. Is it possible to fit anotther lock out of a newer nissan to the R33. I just feel that the current ignition lock in my car is a bit of a weak point in my security. I thought of just adding in a key code pad or something as a bit of extra security instead.

If your current ignition is flogged, then you can replace it with a brand new one of the same model. It'll set you back $120-$200 odd though.

You can sometimes tell this if your key is able to be removed fairly easily in the ACC or ON position. If your key is flogged/worn this can happen too.

Or if your ignition is able to be turned with a random key or screwdriver.

Otherwise an immobiliser is best recommended whether your ignition is in good nick or not.

Edited October 18, 2007 by KeyMaker

[Dan_J]

got my key (a31) cut for $7 at the local plazza

[Wayne_J]

Yeah probably. Its a bit of a security issue. Its best not to disclose this number to anyone other than a locksmith.

I'm another with only one key... which makes me nervous to say the least.

I stopped in at a 'proper' locksmith yesterday (large storefront etc.) in Wollongong, who claimed he definitely couldnt make a copy, and suggested I went to a Nissan dealer (which sounds like an excellent way to get raped in the wallet)...

Where would I find this code on the key? Its for 2000 model R34 GTT.

I'd really like 2 more spare keys, I don't give a rat's whether they're Nismo keys or whatever - just as long as they work - and as cheaply as possible of course

Anyway, if anyone can point me in the right direction, recommend the best way to get some spares at the right price?

As I said, I only have the one key so if they can be cut from just knowing the code, that'd be great... only thing is I need to find out that code of course.

I'm located in the Illawarra BTW. Cheers

[nsm034]

i got a spare cut for my gtt at just a normal locksmiths no prob, but make sure you check it straight away as mine didn't work first time, had to get a bit more shaved off it.

oh but thats not for a lock / unlock button key

Edited February 2, 2008 by nsm034