How to Find a Spare Car Key Maker Near Me
A car key can not work at the most uncomfortable times. Whether you're loading groceries in the trunk, driving to work or getting ready to take your kids to soccer practice, you could find your car keys don't want to turn.
To create a spare car key, an associate chooses the appropriate key blank for the vehicle you are using and then uses a machine to precisely trace the original contours of the key. The process typically takes a few minutes.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys as they are sometimes called can be found in a wide variety of automobiles today. These are slightly larger than your typical mechanical car key, and include an electronic micro-chip embedded in the head of the key. The chip sends an unidirectional signal to the engine control unit (ECU) of your vehicle when it is put into the ignition. The ECU recognizes the unique code sent by the chip, and only allows the car to start if that specific signal is received. This eliminates the chance that cars could be stolen with stolen keys because it is not possible to use a duplicate key to start your vehicle.
Bring your keys to an authorized locksmith, or an auto dealership and ask questions about it. They should be able confirm that the key does indeed have a chip, and that it has been programmed to fit your car. They will also be able to show you how it works if you haven't already seen this technology in action.
If you're in a pinch and need to have a spare transponder key made it will cost more than a regular car key. The cost is worth it when you take into consideration that a transponder could prevent you from having to replace a luxury car or your family's trusty equipment due to theft.
Some locksmiths for automotive will make you a spare transponder, and some will even make it for no cost. You'll have to provide them with the year, model and MODEL of your car so they can program the key properly. This will to speed up the process. It will be quicker than if you simply brought in a standard key.
You can save money by making a spare transponder and storing it somewhere other than your home or car. It is best to keep it in an easily accessible location, such as your kitchen counter or in a glove box. This will allow you to keep the track of it, ensuring that it's not in your purse which could easily become lost.
Basic Keys
It's a good idea keep a spare key somewhere secure, particularly if you reside in a colder climate. A spare key can save you from having to call a locksmith or having your vehicle tow when you lose the original. A spare key will save you money in the long run as locksmiths typically charge a large sum for basic keys.
If you have a standard key it is possible to get a duplicate made at any home improvement store. Many of them have self-service kiosks that are simple to use. They can create auto and standard keys that do not require programming. You might have to pay a little more for auto keys, but they're still cheaper than buying from dealers.
A local hardware store is also a excellent option to locate an extra key. It's cheaper to buy the spare key at the hardware store than at locksmiths. You can find them in almost every town and city. They usually offer a wide variety of keys and other services like locksmith assistance.
Some retail and grocery stores have their own kiosks. For example, Walmart and Menard's both have them in a majority of their stores. The process is similar to the kiosks found in home improvement stores, and they also make standard keys and auto keys. They can even program older VATS and Transponder keys that aren't compatible with modern key fobs.
You can also visit places such as AutoZone and Napa. These are huge chains of automobiles with many locations in many states. They will usually assist you with whatever type of key you require. These locations are cheaper than a locksmith and can complete the job faster.
If you lose the original key, you can receive a replacement by mail. You can find out more about this service, called minuteKEY. Make sure to check with your insurance or auto warranty company to find out whether it covers stolen or lost key fobs. These services aren't as widespread as getting a spare key from the places mentioned in this article, however they're a great option if you're looking to save money and don't want to hire locksmiths.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a special type of spare car key designed to offer an additional level of security when giving your car to a valet or mechanic. Essentially, these types of keys allow you to open the car and start it but won't give them access to your glove box or trunk, Family Handyman reports. They are typically found in luxury cars such as BMWs and Audis. Some sports cars include them too.
Certain keys for valet come with features that block out the trunk and center console of the car, in addition to restricting the car from being driven over a certain distance or at too fast a speed. You can enable these features on your vehicle's onboard computer prior to handing over the key to a valet or repair shop worker.
This feature is especially helpful for cars with expensive equipment, such as laptops and golf clubs. It also helps prevent your car from being used for a ride by unsavory characters. If you're not sure if your car came with a valet key, go through the owner's manual or contact your dealer to find out.
Valet keys are a great option to add an additional security measure when you are giving your car to a professional but they're not a replacement for having a spare car key. Keep the key in a place secure, such as your wallet or purse, until you are ready to use it. If you keep the valet keys in your car, it could fall into the wrong hands and lead to a lot of trouble for you.
Fortunately, the majority of people don't lose their car keys that they have on purpose. It can happen at any moment and it's crucial to plan ahead for the event of a loss. This includes ensuring that you have a spare key maker near me who can provide you with a new key quickly and cost-effectively. It is also advisable to record the year model, make and model of your vehicle and the VIN number in case you need to report it stolen or missing.
Keyless Entry Fobs
The modern key fob is more simply a tiny remote. It opens the doors of your car and tailgate, as well as the trunk. It also turns on the engine. Some even have an alarm for security. Fobs provide a lot of functions, all in a compact package. They are also more convenient to use by people with disabilities who are unable to turn a standard key.
The method by which these small remotes work varies, depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle. Certain key fobs require dealer programming, or special computer software that is only accessible through a dealer to function with your vehicle. Other fobs can be programmed through your vehicle's infotainment system or the dashboard controls, which is typically an expensive process that requires the use of menus and entering security codes.
A spare remote is a great idea regardless of the type of remote you use. You can get back on the roads faster when you lose, break or even steal yours. It also helps you avoid any additional costs at a locksmith in the event that you need a replacement key or your key fob battery needs to be replaced.
Fobs are available in a variety of colors and shapes, as well as finishes to match your style and preferences. Most have a key ring built inside the enclosure so that you can easily add it to your key ring. These are available in various button designs ranging from zero to five. Some are designed with a snap-together screw-together mechanism which makes them easy to disassemble and assemble. Others come with a keychain clip that is easy to attach to your briefcase, purse or other bag.
The key fob has a transmitter/radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and an antenna that communicates with the reader device attached to your car's locking system. When get spare key made press a button on the fob, it sends a unique coded signal to the reader device. The reader device then adjusts to the frequency of the signal and accepts it if it matches what the RFID tag is programmed to accept.