How to Find a Spare Car Key Maker Near Me
A car key can not function at the worst possible moment. When you're packing groceries into the trunk, preparing to go to work, or getting ready to take your children to soccer practice, you could discover that your car keys don't want to turn.
To create an extra key for your car, a technician will select the correct blank key for your vehicle. Then using a machine they will trace the contours of the original key. This process takes only a few moments.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as chip keys as they are often referred to, are found in many automobiles today. These keys are slightly larger than a traditional car key, and have a micro-chip embedded into the head. When the chip is placed in the ignition, it transmits a low level signal to the ECU (engine control unit) of your car. The ECU recognizes the unique code sent by the chip, and only allows the car to start once the signal is received. This eliminates the chance that cars can be taken by thieves with stolen keys since it is impossible to use a duplicate to start your vehicle.
The best way to determine whether your key has a transponder chip is to bring it to a locksmith or auto dealership and ask about it. They should be able to 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 show you how it operates if you haven't seen this technology in the action.
If you're in a bind and require a spare transponder keys made it will cost more than just a regular car key. The cost is worth it when you take into consideration that a transponder could keep you from having to replace a luxury car or your family's dependable rig because of theft.
Some locksmiths in the automotive industry will give an extra transponder for you, and some will even make it for no cost. You will need to give them the year, make and MODEL of your vehicle to enable them to program the correct key. Having this information ready will speed up the process and will be much faster than if you were to simply bring in a standard car key.
You can cut down on the expense by getting a spare transponder key made before you require one and leaving it in a different location than your home or car. It's recommended to place it in a place that is easy to locate, such as the counter in your kitchen, or the glove box. This will allow you to keep track of it, so it's not left in your purse in a place where it could easily get lost.
Basic Keys
It's a good idea keep a spare key safe, especially if you reside in a colder climate. You won't have to call a locksmith or get your vehicle towed in the event that you lose the original key. A spare key can save you money over time as locksmiths typically charge a large sum for basic keys.
If lost my car key and have no spare have a standard key, it should be easy to get a duplicate at any home improvement store. Many of these stores have self-serve kiosks that are easy to use. They can make auto and standard keys that don't require any programming. You may need to pay a little more for the auto keys, but they are still much less expensive than going to the dealer.
A local hardware store is another excellent option to locate a spare key. It is much cheaper to purchase the spare key at a hardware store than a locksmith. They are available in nearly every city and town. They will usually offer various types of keys and other services like help with locking out.
Some retail and grocery stores have kiosks as well. For instance, Walmart and Menard's both have them in the majority of their stores. The process is similar to home improvement store kiosks and they are able to make auto and standard keys. They can even program older VATS and Transponder keys that aren't compatible with modern key fobs.
You can also check out places like AutoZone or Napa. These are huge automotive chains with multiple locations across a variety of states. They will usually assist you with any kind of key you require. These chains are a lot more affordable than a locksmith and often can complete the job faster too.
There's a new service that will mail you a replacement key via mail if you have lost the original. You can learn more about this service, called minuteKEY. You can also inquire with your insurance provider or auto warranty to determine if they provide protection for lost or stolen key fobs. These aren't as common as obtaining an extra key from one of the places mentioned in this article, but it's an option when you need to save some cash and don't wish to pay a large sum for locksmith services.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car keys that provide an additional layer of security when you surrender your car to a mechanic or valet. Family Handyman reports that these keys are designed to allow people to unlock the car and then start it, but not to allow access to the glove compartment or trunk. These keys are typically found in luxury cars such as BMWs and Audis. Some sports cars include them too.
In addition to securing the trunk of your car and the center console as well, some valet keys have features that prevent the car from being driven too fast or over a certain distance. You can turn these features on in your vehicle's computer onboard prior to giving the key to a valet.
This feature is particularly useful if your car has expensive equipment, like golf clubs and laptops. This feature also prevents your vehicle from being taken for a joyride by unsavory characters. If you're not sure if your car was equipped with a valet key, look through the owner's manual, or contact your dealer to determine.
Valet keys are a great way to add an additional security measure when you are giving your car to a professional, however, they aren't a replacement for having an extra car key. Keep the valet key safe, like your purse or wallet until you are ready to use it. If you leave your valet key in your vehicle, you could end up in serious trouble if it falls into the wrong hands.
Fortunately that the majority of people don't intentionally lose their keys. But, it could happen at any moment so it is important to have a plan in place to deal with this if it happens. You should also locate a key maker nearby who can make a new key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. It is also advisable to record the year, model and make of your vehicle as well as the VIN number just in case you have to report it stolen or missing.
Keyless Entry Fobs
The modern key fob is more than simply an insignificant remote. It opens your car's doors or trunk and tailgate it also starts the engine, houses a panic button, and even controls some accessories, like windows and sliding doors with power. Some even have an alarm for security, too. Fobs offer 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 regular key.
The way these tiny remotes operate varies, based on the year, model and model of your car. Some key fobs require dealer programming, or computer software that can only be obtained at a dealer to work with your vehicle. Others can be programmed via the infotainment system of your vehicle or the dashboard controls, which is generally a time-consuming process that involves accessing menus and entering security codes.
A spare remote is a great idea, regardless of the kind of remote you are using. It can help you get back on the road faster when yours gets lost, stolen, or damaged. And you can avoid extra costs at a locksmith in the event that you need a replacement key made or if your key fob battery needs to be replaced.
Fobs come in a wide range of shapes, colors and finishes to match your personal style and preferences. The majority of them have a key ring built into the enclosure, so you can easily attach it to your key ring. They are available in a variety of button designs that range from zero to five. Some are snap-together or screw-together style that makes the process of assembling and disassembling them easy. Others have a key chain clip that can be easily attached to your purse, briefcase, or other bag.
The key fob comes with a transmitter/radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip, a transmitter and an antenna. It communicates with the reader device connected to the locking system of your vehicle. When you hit a button on your fob, it transmits a unique coded signal the reader device. The reader device then adjusts the frequency of the signal and accepts it if it is in line with what the RFID tag is programmed to accept.