If you want a versatile, uncut blank key that gives you the freedom to cut it yourself for any Thule or Yakima cylinder within the specified range, choose Llhhs D1251; if you need pre-cut keys that arrive ready to work immediately without a locksmith visit, choose GENERIC Two Keys that. This distinction is the only real decision you face when equipping your electric vehicles with the right security tools. The market often confuses buyers by selling blanks as solutions, but in reality, one path requires a trip to a machine and the other offers instant access. Your choice depends entirely on whether you value customization and future-proofing or immediate convenience and time savings.
• Llhhs D1251: Its greatest strength is its versatility as an uncut blank compatible with a vast array of lock codes (A131-A155 for Yakima and N001-N250 for Thule), allowing you to create a master key or replacement for multiple locks. Its trade-off is that it arrives unusable until you pay for cutting services, adding a step and potential cost to the process. This pick is for DIYers who own multiple racks or plan to change locks frequently.
• GENERIC Two Keys that: Its biggest advantage is that they are professionally cut by a locksmith with over 40 years of experience and arrive fully functional out of the package for a specific code (N181). The trade-off is that they are limited to a single specific key code and do not offer the flexibility to be used elsewhere without purchasing a new set. This pick is for the owner of a single rack who wants a "plug-and-play" solution.
• Who each pick is for: Choose Llhhs if you need a blank for a complex setup or future repairs; choose GENERIC if you just need a working key for your current lock today.
The Llhhs D1251 is designed for the person who treats their roof rack system as a long-term investment requiring flexibility. As an uncut key blank, this item is essentially a raw material for security. It does not open a lock immediately upon purchase; instead, it serves as the foundation for a custom solution. The product information specifies dimensions of 1 x 1 x 1 inches, indicating a compact, manageable size that fits easily into a glove box or tool kit alongside other vehicle accessories. The true power of this key lies in its broad compatibility list. It is engineered to fit Yakima lock cylinders coded A131 through A155 and Thule cylinders ranging from N001 to N250, including the R-series variants like N001R. This wide range means one single blank can potentially service multiple different locks across various brands, provided the internal cylinder codes match.
This product also extends its utility beyond just the major names. If you are managing a fleet of cargo boxes or have acquired second-hand gear from these brands, having this blank on hand is invaluable. However, the requirement for cutting cannot be overstated. The manufacturer explicitly states this is an uncut key blank that requires cutting according to the lock's code. This means you must know your specific code before attempting to use it, and you must locate a locksmith or key-cutting machine capable of handling these specific automotive or rack-related codes. It is not a simple hardware store job for everyone.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-07 · 8 min read · Independent comparison
Who should buy this? You should choose the Llhhs D1251 if you are a road-tripper with multiple Thule or Yakima carriers, or if you anticipate needing to replace lost keys for different locks down the line. It is ideal for the mechanic or the enthusiast who enjoys handling their own maintenance and has access to key-cutting equipment. Conversely, you should skip this product if you are in a rush, do not know your lock code, or lack access to a professional cutter. If you need a key to open your car trunk right now to retrieve your bike, this blank will not help you until you complete the secondary step of cutting.
The GENERIC Two Keys that product is built for speed and certainty. Unlike the blank option, these items are finished goods. The core promise here is that they arrive pre-cut and ready to work in your lock without any additional modifications. This eliminates the guesswork and the extra trip to the shop. The product highlights a specific manufacturing pedigree, noting that the keys are cut by a professional locksmith with over 40 years of industry experience. This level of expertise suggests a high degree of precision in the cutting process, which is critical for modern locking mechanisms where a slight deviation can prevent entry or damage the cylinder. The design includes two keys, providing a necessary redundancy. Losing one key is common; losing both leaves you stranded. Having a pair ensures you always have a backup available.
The physical specifications reinforce the practical nature of this product. The chrome finish provides a standard aesthetic that matches most high-quality rack locks. Crucially, this product is specific. It is designed to fit Thule locks with the specific key code N181. While this specificity might seem limiting compared to the universal blank, it is actually a feature for the average consumer. Most people do not need a key that fits twenty different lock types; they need a key that works for their one specific lock. By focusing on a single code, the manufacturer ensures a perfect fit every time, removing the risk of buying a blank that doesn't match your unique cylinder.
Who should buy this? This is the clear winner for the individual owner of a single Thule or Yakima cargo box or roof rack who has misplaced their original key. If you know your code is N181, you can order this, receive it, and immediately regain access to your gear. It is perfect for the traveler who values convenience over customization. You should skip this product if you do not know your key code, as these are not universal blanks. They will not work on a lock with code N182 or N001. Furthermore, if you manage a collection of racks with different codes, buying separate sets for each would be inefficient compared to holding onto a few blanks that can be cut to any of those codes.
• Best for immediate use → GENERIC Two Keys that. These arrive ready to insert into the lock, saving you hours of searching for a cutter.
• Best for multi-lock ownership → Llhhs D1251. One blank can serve multiple locks across the A131-A155 and N001-N250 ranges if you have access to cutting.
• Best for peace of mind → GENERIC Two Keys that. The inclusion of a second key ensures you never get locked out completely, whereas the Llhhs comes as a single unit.
• Best for customization → Llhhs D1251. You control exactly how the key is cut, allowing you to match the exact specifications of your specific lock cylinder.
• Best for known code owners → GENERIC Two Keys that. If you have your code (e.g., N181), this is the most direct path to a solution.
• Best for unknown code situations → Llhhs D1251. While you still need to find the code to cut it, the blank itself doesn't restrict you to one brand or code family.
• Best for durability of fit → GENERIC Two Keys that. Professional cutting by a veteran locksmith implies a higher likelihood of a smooth turn on the first try.
• Best for future repairs → Llhhs D1251. Keeping a stock of blanks allows you to handle future lock changes or lost keys without re-ordering.
In my opinion, I would recommend the GENERIC Two Keys that for most electric vehicle owners who simply need to secure their gear. The reality is that most people lose their keys and need them back quickly. The hassle of finding a locksmith, paying for a cut, and waiting for the key to be made is a barrier that prevents many from solving the problem efficiently. The fact that these come as a pair and are pre-cut by a seasoned professional removes all friction. However, if you are a serious enthusiast with a complex setup involving multiple racks or different lock codes, the Llhhs D1251 is the smarter long-term tool to keep in your toolkit. For the average user looking for a reliable solution for their electric vehicle roof storage, the convenience of the pre-cut pair wins out.
No, neither is truly universal. The Llhhs D1251 covers a wide range of codes (A131-A155 and N001-N250) but remains an uncut blank. The GENERIC keys are specifically cut for code N181 and will not work on other codes. Always verify your lock code before purchasing.
You do not necessarily need the old key if you have the lock code. The Llhhs D1251 is a blank that must be cut to match the specific code of your lock cylinder. Without the code or the original key, a professional cutter cannot make it functional.
Durability is comparable as both are metal keys. However, the GENERIC set benefits from being cut by a professional with 40 years of experience, ensuring the teeth are precisely shaped for optimal turning, whereas a self-cut blank might have alignment issues if done incorrectly.
The GENERIC product mentions a money-back guarantee, suggesting returns are possible if the fit is incorrect or the key does not work. The Llhhs D1251 policy emphasizes customer service contact for questions, but since it is a blank, the responsibility falls on the buyer to ensure the correct code was selected for cutting.
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