Blog entry by Felica Harcus
If you've lost your keys, the first thing to do is look around. Look in your bags, pockets and even under your parked car.
You can also bring in your original key and get it duplicated at a KeyMe kiosk at a participating AutoZone. Call ahead to inquire what services are available at your local AutoZone.
Keys laser-cut
Laser-cut keys or Side Winder keys are the newest technology in car keys that provide an extra blanket of security for your vehicle. They are made using sophisticated nearest key cutting cutting machines which require a locksmith to operate. They are also more durable than keys cut mechanically and harder to pick. These keys feature a distinct groove that makes them appear different from traditional keys. They are also a bit thicker and can fit through the lock both ways. They are sometimes referred to as side-winder keys for these reasons.
They are a little more expensive than traditional keys, however they provide an added layer of security. Laser-cut keys differ from traditional keys that have notches both on the sides. They have a groove at the center. This design makes it more difficult to duplicate, increasing the security of your vehicle.
It is crucial to purchase a laser-cut key for your car from a reputable dealer. You should check if the company has an online shop and then contact them to inquire if they are capable of producing the key you require. You should also buy one that is compatible with the ignition system of your vehicle. Additionally, you must make sure that the key has a transponder chip. If the key does not contain a transponder, it is difficult to start your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys can be used in multiple vehicles. If you lose a key, you don't have to purchase another one. But, it's important to remember that laser-cut keys are generally more expensive than traditional keys and need an expert locksmith to program them.
No matter if you have an laser-cut key or a traditional one, you should have it duplicated by a qualified locksmith. Searching "car key cutting near me" on the Internet will help you find a professional. You can also go to an Ace Hardware Store, which offers a variety of services relating to automotive keys.
Traditional keys
Car keys have evolved a lot since their humble beginnings. Modern car keys come with advanced safety features such as noise alerts and remote controls. However losing a key could still be a nightmare, especially if you're in the middle of an extremely busy day and need to make arrangements for emergency roadside assistance or locksmith. There are several places where you can swiftly and affordably get your key duplicated.
Many hardware stores and big-box home improvement stores offer key duplication. These are typically cheaper than getting a key cut at your local locksmith. The process can be carried out in your home and takes just a few moments. You can also purchase key accessories, such as rings, hiders and key chains to secure your keys and avoid them accidentally being lost.
You can also get your car keys cut at auto parts stores. AutoZone and NAPA offer key-cutting services to replace traditional keys for your car if they're lost or damaged. A representative will choose the correct blank key for your vehicle's year, model and model. Then the key cutting machine tracks the original contours of your current key to produce an exact copy of your lost one.
A few department stores, grocery stores, chains, and pharmacies also provide mobile key cutting service-cutting services. Certain Kmart stores, for instance have kiosks for minuteKEY that can copy keys from household as well as other types of keys including high-performance, brass 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 hardware chains which offer key cutting in-store. These stores can duplicate office and home standard keys and certain fobs and car keys. Call ahead to find out what they offer.
Keys to the Valet
Valet keys are an excellent way to protect your car from being stolen. They are designed to block thieves from accessing your trunk, glovebox and center console. They do not secure the ignition or doors. Additionally, they are unable to start the vehicle. If you require an alternative car key, you can buy one from an AutoZone or any other local hardware store. However, make sure you select a trusted locksmith who understands the distinction between a Valet key and an OEM key. If possible, you should use an OEM key since aftermarket keys are typically fakes and do not last.
A valet key is a special spare car key that doesn't permit the user to start the engine. It is made of plastic and has a head that is round that fits in the single cut locks that are found on a variety of 3rd Gen Civics. The key head is put into the lock and the valet function is activated. This will lock the driver's door and roll down the windows, but not turn off alarm.
These are often used by owners who give their cars to valets or mechanics to be serviced by. They can be bought from any locksmith, or at a kiosk in your local hardware store. A valet key is a useful tool for those who have expensive belongings in their glove box or trunk, as it can prevent them from being stolen by a thief. In addition, it can assist in stopping a thief from stealing your car and taking it to a fun ride while you are eating in the restaurant.
The technology behind valet keys is advancing. 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 restrict the functions that the valet is able to perform. Early versions of the keys could not open the trunk or glove box however the most recent versions can limit the speed of the vehicle as well as use GPS to stop it from traveling too far away from the parking lot.
Transponder keys
Many modern cars include a microchip in the head of the key called a transponder. This type of key cannot be duplicated in the same way as traditional keys, therefore you'll need to find an expert locksmith who is specialized in this type of service. Our locksmiths can cut a new key with chip that is programmed for your vehicle and at a reasonable price. Get a quote today.
A transponder key has an specialized microchip that emits a low-level signal when it is placed in the ignition. The signal is read by a device within your car's computer. The computer matches the serial number of the key with the database of the car. If the match is successful, the car will start. If the match is not successful, the car will turn off. The process is very fast and there is no possibility that your key will be deactivated because of the immobilizer.
Transponder keys, also known as Chip keys or VATS keys (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) They have been around since mid-1980s. Their goal was to stop car theft, which has been a major problem in the US for a number of decades. Transponder keys were designed to make it difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle and they do an excellent job at doing this. When the key is put in the ignition, the chip sends out an alert that contains an unidentified "password." If the code is identical to the one in your car's computer it will start the car. If the code doesn't match, the engine will be shut down.
The only downside to this method is that if your key has been compromised it will have to be changed. This can cost more than a normal key replacement. It is essential to have a spare transponder.
Transponder car keys have made it more difficult for thieves to take your vehicle. Anyone who attempts to steal your car will be caught and you'll have proof that the car belongs to you. It's still possible to rob the car however it requires a lot more time and effort than it did before.