Blog entry by Theodore Beaman
If you've lost your keys, the first thing to do is search. Examine your bags, pockets and even under your parked car.
You can also bring your original key and get it duplicated by a KeyMe kiosk at a participating AutoZone. The services available vary by location, so be sure to call ahead to inquire about the services available at your local store.
Laser-cut keys
Laser-cut keys or Side Winder keys are the newest technology in car keys and provide an extra blanket of security for your vehicle. They are made using advanced key cutting machines that require a locksmith to operate. They are also more durable and difficult to pick than traditional mechanical cut keys. These keys have an unique groove in the middle that makes them look different than traditional keys. They are also thicker and can go into the lock both ways. This is one of the reasons they are referred to as side winder keys.
They're a bit more expensive than traditional keys, however they add a security layer. Unlike traditional keys, which have notches on both sides, laser-cut keys feature a groove in the middle. This design makes it more difficult to duplicate, increasing the security of your vehicle.
It is essential to purchase a laser-cut car keys from a trusted dealer. Check if the company offers an online store and contact them directly to confirm that they are able to make the key you require. It is also best to buy the key that is compatible with the ignition system in your vehicle. Additionally, you must ensure that the key comes with transponder chips. It will be difficult to start your car if the key does not contain a transponder.
Laser-cut keys are also used on multiple vehicles. If you lose a key, you don't have to buy another one. It is important to remember that laser-cut key are more expensive than conventional ones and require a locksmith to program.
You should have your key duplicated by a locksmith regardless of whether it is an original or laser-cut key. A search of "car key cutting near me" on the Internet will help you find an expert. Alternately, you can go to an Ace Hardware store, which offers many services related to cutting keys for cars.
Traditional keys
Since their humble beginnings car keys have advanced a lot. The modern car key has advanced security features like remote controls and noise alerts. However, losing a key can be a real nightmare especially in the middle of a busy day and have to arrange for emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith. Fortunately, there are a number of places where you can get car key cut your key copied quickly and easily.
The majority of hardware stores and big box home improvement stores offer key duplication services. These are usually cheaper than having a key cut at the local locksmith. The process typically takes about a minute and can be done from the at the comfort of your home. You can also purchase key accessories such as keys and rings to secure your keys and keep them from getting lost.
You can also have your car keys cut at auto car key cutting near me parts stores. Certain locations of AutoZone and NAPA offer key-cutting services that can help you replace the keys in your vehicle's original locks when they're lost or damaged. A representative will select the right key blank for your year, make and model. Then, a key cutting machine follows the original contours of your current key to produce an exact duplicate of the lost key.
You can also find key-cutting services in some department store, grocery stores, chains, and drug stores. Certain Kmart stores, for example have kiosks for minuteKEY that can copy keys from household and other kinds of keys like brass, high-performance and bottle opener keys. The kiosks are able to create padlock keys, access cards and even bottle opener keys.
Ace Hardware and Menards are two major chains of hardware that offer key cutting services in-store. These stores can duplicate standard office and house keys, as well as fobs and car keys. Their offerings differ from location to location therefore it is recommended to make a call prior to visiting one.
Keys to the Valet
Valet keys can be the perfect way to stop your vehicle from being stolen. They are designed to prevent thieves from getting into your trunk, glovebox, and center console. They are not able to secure the doors or ignition. Also, they cannot start the vehicle. If you need to get an additional car key, you can buy one at AutoZone or any other local hardware store. But make sure you choose a reputable locksmith who can tell the distinction between a Valet key and an OEM key. You should always use an OEM key if possible because aftermarket keys are often fake and do not last.
A valet key is a special spare car key that does not allow the user to turn on the engine. It is usually made of plastic and comes with a round key head that can be used in single cut locks that are found in a variety of 3rd Gen Civics. The key head is put into the lock and the valet function is activated. This will lock the door of the driver and roll down the windows, but will not turn off the alarm.
Owners who give their cars over to valets or mechanics for service typically make use of these. They can be purchased from any locksmith or even at a kiosk in the local hardware store. A valet key is an excellent tool for those who have valuable items in their glove box or trunk to keep them from being stolen by a burglar. In addition, it could help prevent a thief from taking your car to a fun ride while you're eating in an eatery.
The technology of valet keys is improving. Certain brands, like BMW and Audi offer them on their most recent models. The latest versions of these keys are able to connect to the computer in the vehicle, allowing them to limit the functions that the valet can perform. The earlier versions could not open the glove box or trunk however, the most recent versions limit the speed at which the vehicle can drive and even use GPS to stop the vehicle from moving too far away from the parking lot.
Transponder keys
Many modern vehicles come with a microchip embedded in the head of the key called a transponder. This kind of car key cannot be copied exactly the same way as the traditional key cut places near me, therefore you will need to visit a locksmith that specializes in this kind of service. Our locksmiths can cut you a new chipped key, programmed to your vehicle, for an affordable price. Get a quote today.
A transponder key contains an exclusive microchip that sends a low-level signal when it is placed in the ignition. The signal is read by a receiver in the car's computer system. The computer then matches the serial number of the key to the database of the car. If the match is successful, your car will start. If the match isn't successful, your car will stop. The process is incredibly fast and there's a good chance that the key will be tampered with by the immobilizer, or any other anti-theft devices.
Transponder car keys, also referred to as Chip or VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) car keys were introduced in the mid-1980s. They were created to prevent car theft, which has been a major problem in the US for a number of decades. Transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to steal cars. They do a good job of doing this. When the key is inserted into the ignition the chip transmits an alert that contains a secret "password." If the code is identical to the one in the car key cutting lowes's computer it will start the car. If the code doesn't match, it closes the engine.
The only drawback to this technology is that, if your key is compromised, it will need to be reset. This can cost more than a typical key replacement. This is why it's important to have a spare transponder key.
Transponder keys make it difficult for thieves to steal your car. Those who try will likely be caught and you'll have proof that the car belongs to you. It is still possible to steal cars, but it requires an enormous amount of time and effort.