How to Find a Spare Car Key Maker Near Me
A car key could not function at the worst possible moment. If you're putting groceries in the trunk, heading to work, or getting ready to take your kids to soccer practice, you could discover that your car keys don't want to turn.
To create a spare key for your car, a technician will choose the appropriate blank key for the vehicle you are using. Then using a machine they will trace the contours of the original key. The process takes only a few moments.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys as they are sometimes referred to, are found in many automobiles today. These keys are slightly bigger than the typical mechanical car key and have an electronic microchip in the head of the key. When the chip is inserted into the ignition, it transmits a low-level signal to the ECU (engine control unit) of your car. The ECU recognizes a unique code transmitted by the chip and will allow the car to start when that signal is received. This eliminates the chance that cars could be taken by thieves with stolen keys because it is not possible to use a duplicate key to start your vehicle.
The best way to determine if your key has a transponder chip is by taking it to a locksmith shop or auto dealership and ask them about it. They will be able easily confirm that the key has a transponder chip and that it must be programmed for your specific vehicle. They will also be able to explain how it works if you haven't already seen this technology in motion.
It is more expensive to purchase a transponder car key created if you need one in a hurry. However, when you consider the fact that a transponder key can be a lifesaver from having to replace your luxury vehicle or trusty family vehicle due to theft, the extra expense is well worth it.
Some automotive locksmiths will make an extra transponder for you, and they might even do it for free. You will need to give them the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of the vehicle to enable them to program the correct key. This information will make the process easier and will be more efficient than if you simply bring in a standard car key.
You can avoid some of the costs by having a spare transponder key made before you need one, and leaving it in a different place than your car or home. It's best to keep it in a easily accessible location, such as your kitchen counter or in a glove box. This will allow you to keep track of the item so that it won't become lost in your purse.
Basic Keys
It's a good idea to keep a spare key safe, especially if you reside in a colder climate. A spare keys for cars key can save you from having to contact a locksmith or have your vehicle tow when you lose the original. The possession of a spare key could also save you money in the long run since most locksmiths charge an amount of money for keys that are basic.
If you have a standard key, it should be simple to get a duplicate made at any home improvement store. Self-service kiosks are in the majority of these stores. They can make auto and standard keys that don't require any programming. You may have to pay a little more for auto keys, but they're still cheaper than going to an agent.
Another excellent place to find spare keys is your local hardware store. It's cheaper to purchase an extra key from an hardware store than from a locksmith. You can find them in nearly every town and city. They usually offer a wide range of key types, as well as additional services such as locksmith assistance.
Some retail and grocery stores have their own kiosks. Walmart and Menard's for instance both have kiosks in their stores. The process is a lot like to kiosks at home improvement stores and they are able to make standard and auto keys. They can even program some older VATS and Transponder keys that aren't compatible with modern key fobs.
You can also look into locations like AutoZone or Napa. These are huge chains of automobiles which have many locations across the country and can typically assist you with any kind of key you require. These places are cheaper than locksmiths and can complete the job much more quickly.
If you lose the original key, you can now receive a replacement by mail. This is called minuteKEY. You can read more about it here. Contact your insurance or auto warranty company to determine if it covers lost or stolen key fobs. These aren't as popular as getting an extra key from the locations mentioned in this article, but 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 type of keys for cars that offer an additional level of security when you surrender your car to a mechanic or valet. They basically, these keys let you unlock and start the car but they don't grant access to your glove box or trunk, Family Handyman reports. They are typically used in high-end vehicles like BMWs and Audis. Some sports cars come with them.
Some valet keys have features that block the trunk and center console of the car, as well as stopping the car from being driven for a specific distance or at too fast speed. You can activate these features in your vehicle's computer onboard prior to giving the key to the valet.
This feature is especially helpful if you have expensive gear in the trunk of your car spare key, like laptops or golf clubs. This feature can also protect your car from being taken on an adventure by unscrupulous characters. If you are unsure whether your car was equipped with the valet key, read through the owner's manual or contact your dealer to find out.
Valet keys can be a great way to provide an additional layer of security for your vehicle when you hand it to a professional. However, they can not substitute for having an extra key. It is an ideal idea to keep the valet key in a secure location, like your purse or wallet, until you're ready. If you leave your valet key in your car, you could be in serious trouble if it gets into the wrong hands.
Fortunately most people don't deliberately lose their keys. It could happen at any moment, so it's important to plan ahead for when that happens. It is also recommended to find an expert in the field who can create a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. You should also note down the year the model, year and make of your car spare keys as well as the VIN number just in case you have to report it stolen or missing.
Keyless Entry Fobs
The modern key fob has more to offer than just a small remote. It opens the car's doors, trunk and tailgate. It also powers up the engine. Some have even a security alarm. Fobs provide a lot of functionality in a compact package, and they are easier to use for people with physical limitations that make turning a regular key difficult.
The way that these little remotes work varies, depending on the year, model, and model of your car. For example, some key fobs might require dealer programming or specialized computer software only accessible through a dealership in order to function with your car. Some key fobs can be programmed using your vehicle's dashboard controls or infotainment systems. This is a lengthy process that requires you to navigate menus and enter security codes.
Whatever type of remote your car has, a spare is always an ideal option. You can get back on the road faster if you lose, damage or even steal yours. You can also avoid paying extra for a locksmith if you need a new key or replacement battery for your key fob.
Fobs are available in a variety of colors and finishes as well as shapes to suit your style and preferences. Most have a key ring molded directly into the enclosure, which means you can add it to your existing key ring. These are available in different button designs that range from zero to five. Some come with a snap-together or screw-together style that makes assembly and disassembly simple. Some have keychain clips that allow you to attach them easily to your bag, briefcase or purse.
A key fob is equipped with an RFID transmitter (RFID) chip and an antenna that communicates with the reader device that is connected to your car's locking system. When you hit a button on your fob, it sends an unique coded signal to the reader device. The reader device adjusts the frequency of this signal to coincide with the RFID tag's programed frequency.