14 Smart Ways To Spend Your Leftover Spare Car Key Cut Budget

14 Smart Ways To Spend Your Leftover Spare Car Key Cut Budget

How to Get a Spare Car Key Cutting Near Me

Car keys are lost or tucked away in the trunk at the most difficult times. A spare key can save time and money.

Bring your existing key to Mister Minit and a staff member will trace the original contours onto the blank key. The key will be created in about 30 minutes and the majority of locations are able to make a key/fob that can be used for push button cars.

Valet Keys

Many modern cars are equipped with a valet key, a smaller version that permits drivers to open and start their car but not the trunk or glovebox. This is intended to keep those who are not reputable, such as mechanics and valets from accessing the contents of your car.

If you own keys to valet it is recommended to keep it in a safe place until you are ready to use it. Make sure that no one else has access to it. Otherwise you could get into a lot of trouble. Some of the newest car theft prevention methods include setting up a code that locks your glove box and trunk with a particular key.

Some modern versions of this concept include a physical lock inside the key fob, which does not allow you to unlock your car's doors, trunk or glove box. Generally speaking, these are designed to be used for someone that you have hired to work on your car but does not have the same degree of trust as a family member or a friend.

You can still purchase a basic key that will open the doors, but not start your car. A locksmith can cut it for you at a very low cost. You will then need to learn how to program this new key, which is typically included in the owner's manual. There are plenty of videos and tutorials on the internet that can help you.

The other alternative, if you're not comfortable cutting your spare key on your own or don't want to pay for a locksmith to do so, is to go to your dealer or one that is specialized in your car maker's name. The dealer may be in a position to cut and program keys for you at a much lower cost than an independent auto parts shop or locksmith.


It is important to remember that the best defense is a good offense. A spare key could save you the hassle of having to replace your stolen vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are utilized in all modern vehicles. They contain an electronic chip. This technology is meant to stop theft of cars by ensuring that only owner of the vehicle is able to start it. This technology hasn't totally stopped car theft, but it has made it more difficult for thieves to use hot-wires and steal the vehicle. If you have a car with a chip in it, you may be thinking about how to copy it or where to to get a spare key cut.

In contrast to traditional keys, modern transponder keys are cut by a machine, and then programmed to a specific vehicle. This process is extremely complicated and requires extensive technical knowledge. It is best to look for a locksmith who is able to offer this service. Modern automotive locksmiths are equipped with the tools and equipment needed to cut and program a new car key for your vehicle.  spare car key maker  offer an on-site service that will be at your location to assist you.

If you want to have a spare car key that will start your car, you'll need to bring a working key along with a transponder blank with a matching number. The technician will then use a machine to precisely trace the contours of the original key to ensure that it can be duplicated. Once the key is cut, it needs to be programmed to the exact model and make of your vehicle.

You can also go to your local AutoZone to purchase a functioning spare car key. The AutoZone chain of auto parts is able to duplicate most modern car keys, and can be done quickly and efficiently. This method is not as reliable, however, than having an extra car key cut by an experienced locksmith.

While some may be tempted to visit large home improvement stores like Lowe's or Home Depot for a spare car key, these places aren't experts in this field. While they may know how to use a key for your car cutter, they cannot help you with the latest technology needed to start a modern vehicle. It is better to go to an auto parts retailer or a dealership that provides this kind of service.

Keyless Entry Fobs

Many drivers today own cars that are keyless-entry or "smart" vehicles. The fobs enable drivers to unlock and start their vehicle with the press of a button, and they're also integrated into sophisticated vehicle security systems. However, while  spare car key maker  make life easier however, they're not completely safe and can cease functioning after a short time.

There are a variety of options to replace your car's keyfob if it stops working. You can buy a new fob for less through online retailers, but you'll likely need to have it programmed by a locksmith or dealer. Programming can be costly especially for expensive keys that use rolling codes to protect against hackers.

You can also buy an old key fob from an area junkyard. Although you might have a better chance of finding one that is compatible with your vehicle, it's still an investment since it hasn't been tested to determine whether it operates properly. Review the reviews of the seller before buying a used or new fob.

Ask your car manufacturer if they will work with a third-party company to program a new or used key fob. Some independent mechanics and shops are willing to work with third-party companies. These services are usually less expensive than dealerships.

Depending on your car certain fobs come with a small metal key embedded within them that can be used to open the doors or start the engine in case the radio signal fails. The key, however, needs to be cut by a professional, which means it's not an option for every driver.

Fobs also require a battery to function, and they can be repaired by purchasing a new one at an auto parts store or hardware store. The cost of the new battery may vary, but it's usually $10 or less. The owner's manual for your vehicle or the site of the manufacturer usually provides instructions on changing the fob's battery. There are also a lot of YouTube videos that will help you.

Traditional Keys

The humble car key is a very essential and widely used metal object. In our modern times, we depend on keys to safeguard our homes and cars from damage and theft. However, keys weren't always as robust. The first metal key was used around 6000 years ago.

As the world evolves and advances, we require keys that are equally secure. That's why many car manufacturers and key duplicators provide laser-cut keys as a solution for vehicle owners who want to boost their anti-thief security systems. Laser-cut keys are extremely secure thanks to the unique pattern of each key. This unique pattern makes it difficult for thieves to duplicate or pick the lock. It is a preferred choice for both car manufacturers as well as consumers.

Traditional keys have simple designs around the edges. The design is intended to align with the pin pattern of the lock when the key is inserted and turned. Traditional keys don't require any special equipment to make keys, and you can obtain an exact copy from any hardware store or locksmith without a proof of ownership.

It is also a reason why traditional keys are still in demand. You can buy a blank key at a hardware store to make a spare key, or have it made by a locksmith at less than a key fob.

It's always a good idea to have an extra key on hand regardless of what type you own. However, if your spare key is lost or damaged in an accident it's crucial to have the correct details about how to get it replaced quickly and affordably.

If you have a conventional key or a key fob that requires to be replaced, head to your local AutoZone store. A certified associate can use a precise key cutting machine on site to cut the 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 reduce the cost of replacement.