How to Get a Spare Car Key Cutting Near Me
Car keys are often lost or locked in the trunk at the worst circumstances. A spare key can save you money and time.
Bring your existing key to Mister Minit and a staff member will trace the original contours onto a blank key. It will take about 30 minutes to make the key and most locations will even make keys/fobs for push button start cars.
Valet Keys
Many modern cars are fitted with a valet key, a shorter version that allows drivers to open and start their vehicle, but not the trunk or glovebox. This is to prevent undesirable people such as valets and mechanics from gaining access to the contents of your car.
If you have a valet-key, keep it safe until you're ready to use it. Make sure no one else has it. Otherwise, you could be in for many troubles. Some of the most recent methods to prevent theft of cars include creating a passcode that locks your trunk and glove box using a specific key fob.
Modern versions of this concept include a physical lock inside the key fob that doesn't allow you to unlock the doors of your car, trunk or glove box. These are usually intended for someone you hired to work on the vehicle, and who may not have as much faith in them as a friend or family member.
If your car doesn't have a valet key you can still purchase a basic spare key that opens the doors, but not start it. A locksmith can cut this for you at a reasonable price. You'll need to find out how to program this new key, which is typically explained in your owner's manual. There are plenty of tutorials and videos on the web that will help you.
If you don't feel at ease cutting your spare key on your own or don't want to pay a locksmith, the second option is to visit your local dealership or dealer that is specialized in the make and model of your vehicle. The dealership might be in a position to cut and program keys for you at a lower cost than an independent auto parts store or a locksmith.
Remember that the most effective offense is a sound defense. get a spare car key made can ease the burden of replacing your stolen vehicle.
Transponder Keys
Most modern cars come with transponder keys with an electronic chip within it. This technology is intended to stop theft of cars by ensuring that only the owner of the vehicle is able to start it. This technology has not completely stopped car theft, but it has made it much more difficult for thieves to wire and steal the vehicle. You might be wondering how to copy a car that has a chip or where to go for an extra key.
Modern transponder keys are not like traditional keys. They must be programmed by a computer. This is a very complicated process and requires a vast technical understanding. For this reason, it is recommended to find a locksmith that offers this service. Modern automotive locksmiths are equipped with the tools and equipment required to cut and program a brand new key for your vehicle. Some are also able to provide the service of a mobile locksmith so that they can visit you and assist you solve your issue.
If you'd like to have an extra car key that will start your car, you'll have to bring a working key and a blank transponder with a number that matches. The technician will then utilize a device to precisely trace the contours of the original key to allow it to be duplicated. After the key has been cut, it will need to be programmed to the exact model and make of your vehicle.
You can also visit your local AutoZone to get a working spare car key. The AutoZone store can duplicate the modern car key quickly and efficiently. However this method isn't as reliable than getting a spare key cut by the hands of a professional locksmith.
A few people might be enticed by large home improvement stores like Lowe's and Home Depot to get a spare car key, but these places aren't experts in this field. They may have a basic knowledge of how to make a key cutter, but they can't help you with the cutting-edge technology required to get your modern car starting. It is far better to go to an auto parts retailer or a dealership that provides this kind of service.
Keyless Entry Fobs
Many drivers own "smart cars" or keyless entry vehicles. These fobs let drivers unlock their car and start it by pressing one button, and are also integrated into sophisticated vehicle security systems. These fobs are useful but they're not durable and will cease to function after a certain period of time.
If your car's key fob isn't working, you have several options to replace it. You can buy a new fob at a discount from online retailers, however you'll probably need to have it programmed by a dealer or locksmith. The cost of programming could add up, especially for high-end fobs that have rolling codes to keep hackers at bay.
You can also purchase an old key fob from an area junkyard. Although you might have a better chance of finding one that fits your vehicle, it's still an investment since it hasn't been tested to see if it works properly. Review the feedback of the seller before buying a used or new fob.
Ask your automaker if it will cooperate with a third-party service in order to program a used or new key fob. Some independent shops and mechanics are willing to collaborate with third-party service providers. These services are usually cheaper than dealerships.
Depending on your car certain fobs come with an embedded key made of metal within them which can be used to open the doors or start the engine in case the radio signal fails. The key has to be cut by a skilled professional, so it's not for everyone.
Fobs also require batteries to function, so they can be replaced with a new one from an auto parts store or a hardware store. The cost of a new battery will vary, but it is typically about $10 or less. The owner's manual of your vehicle or the website of the manufacturer often includes instructions on how to replace a fob battery and there are a plethora of YouTube videos out there that can guide you through the procedure.
Traditional Keys
The humble car key is one of the most valuable and widely used metal objects on the planet. In the modern world we rely on them to protect our homes, cars and other belongings from theft and damage. But keys weren't always this robust. In fact, the very first used key made of metal dates back around 6000 years.
Keys must be as reliable as the world evolves. Many car manufacturers and key duplicators offer laser-cut keys to vehicle owners who want to enhance their anti-theft systems. Laser-cut keys offer exceptional security thanks to a unique cut pattern that is unique to each key. This unique pattern makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate the key or to pick the lock and makes it a top option for car makers and consumers.
Traditional keys however, have simple designs around the edges. The design is intended to be in line with the pin pattern of the lock when the key is put in and turned. Traditional keys don't require any special equipment for making them, and you can purchase copies of them at any locksmith or hardware store without a proof of ownership.
Another reason traditional keys are popular is their price. You can purchase a key blank from a hardware store to create your own spare key, or have it made by a locksmith for less than a key fob.
It's always recommended to keep an extra key in your possession, no matter what kind you have. If your spare key gets damaged or lost it's important to be able to replace it quickly and affordably.
If you own a traditional key or an accessory key that needs to be replaced, go to your local AutoZone store. A qualified associate can use a precise key cutting machine onsite to shape your new key exactly to the contours of your current working key. You will only require a functioning key, and a valid driver's license to save on replacement costs.