How to Make a Spare Car Key
Everyone knows that a spare key is helpful particularly for those who are prone to lose theirs. If they get lost in their pockets, or when their curious toddler misplaces them, a backup car key could save you from paying huge charges for emergency locksmith services and dealership fees.
Finding a cost-effective way to make an additional key for your car can be a challenge.
1. Copy your key
The days when losing (or worse, damaging) your keys to your car wasn't a big issue are long gone. Car keys are costly and modern. This is why it's crucial to get a spare made!
There are many methods to make a cheap fast and easy duplicate of your car key by hand. You'll also need an ignition source, pliers, and the original car key. Use a credit or other sturdy material to trace and duplicate the key. Once you have the shape outlined, cut it out using a knife or pair of scissors.
Be aware that this isn't an indefinite solution and it won't be compatible with all locks. It's also not an ideal idea to employ the same method to make a copy of a smart or proximity key. Key fobs require special equipment and programming to work, so you'll want to find an alternative method.
Another option is to get duplicate keys made by locksmiths. This is a less expensive and more convenient option, however it is important to select a reliable locksmith. Look online for reviews and pick a firm which offers upfront pricing for their services.
It is recommended to keep your spare keys in a safe place to ensure you have access to it should you lose it. You can hide the key in a secure location at home or give it to a trusted neighbor or friend who lives nearby. You could even request an automotive locksmith to come to your home and create the key for you if you can prove ownership of the vehicle (registration or title).
Lost car keys are a real hassle, but having a spare can help reduce the stress and cost of having to have it replaced. The time and money saved by creating a spare car key now is definitely worth it in the future. Don't wait until the last minute! Find an area locksmith and purchase a spare car key today.
2. Make an extra key
A spare car key will save you money over time. If you lose your car keys it can cost you a significant amount to get them replaced. If you do have a spare key, you can ask locksmiths to make copies of it and save yourself the extra cost of purchasing a new car key. You may not realize that there are other costs that come when you lose your car key like renting a vehicle or paying for a towtruck.
When you get a car the dealer will usually give you two keys. One of these becomes your primary car key, while the other one is an extra. If you buy a used car, there may only be one key. If this is the case it is recommended to purchase an additional key right away.
Car key types vary in their design, so it's crucial to know what kind of key your vehicle uses before you get a spare key made. There are three kinds of car keys - basic keys as well as smart keys and fobs. Basic keys are the standard mechanical type of car keys that have been in use for many years. They are simple to copy and don't require any special coding.
Fobs are the electronic keys that are typically used in modern vehicles. They can be more difficult to replace if you lose them as they must be programmed. They are more secure than standard keys because they are equipped with a microchip that transmits a code to the car's door locks as well as ignition.
Smart keys are the most recent technology for car keys. Smart keys have an inbuilt remote control that allows you to operate the trunk, car locks, and glove box. They can also be programmed to keep different settings. They are more expensive than mechanical keys to replace, but could be worth it if you're concerned about your car being stolen.
Keep spare keys to your car in a safe location, like your pocket or purse. You never know when you might require it so it's a good idea to be prepared.
3. Have a spare key made at home
It's not difficult to lose your car keys but that doesn't mean you have spend a fortune to get a replacement. You can save money by making a spare key at home and there are ways that you can make it at no cost.
Keep your spare key separate from your other keys. This will make sure that you don't leave it in the wrong location or get lost in the shuffle of your keychain. You can achieve this by buying magnetic boxes specifically designed to keep your keys for your car. They are available at a variety of hardware stores, and they generally cost less than $10.
Another option is to get a spare key made at your local locksmith. You'll be required to provide your vehicle's make and model, and you may also need to provide proof that you own the vehicle (such as a registration or title). It's a little more expensive than purchasing an extra key from a dealer, but it is still less than getting a replacement for a lost one.
You can also save some money by purchasing a spare key made using the basic key, for instance VATS. These keys are usually found in older vehicles and do not come with an electronic transponder. Keys are cut at many hardware stores and are cheaper than an extra key that is made from a smart key.
The best way to avoid spending money on spare keys for your vehicle is to ensure that you don't lose it. If you're prone to losing your keys, make a place in your home or office for them. This will ensure that they are not lost and also ensure that you have a backup plan in case in the event of an emergency. A spare key is an absolute lifesaver. It is important to keep it safe and secure.
4. Have a spare key made by locksmith
If your car is new, it will come with a key which needs to be programmed. This key should be used with the engine control unit to allow your vehicle to get it started. This requires special equipment as well as a thorough understanding of the procedure. This kind of key replacement can be made by a locksmith that specializes in automotive work. The cost will vary depending on the model and make of the vehicle.
Another option for getting an extra key is to get it made by your car dealer. Dealerships can create keys that are replacement right in a matter of minutes for all models since they have access to key codes. It is important to keep in mind that this is an expensive and time-consuming procedure.
A locksmith can also create duplicate keys. This is a cost-effective way to get an extra key for your car. The locksmith will need to have the key in hand and the original ID in order to create the duplicate.
The primary reason why it is important to have a spare car key is that you never know when you might lose your original key. This can be a difficult and stressful experience. The best way to deal with this scenario is to be proactive and have a backup plan in place. A spare key will aid you in avoiding this situation.
A spare key can provide peace of mind and can help you save money in the end. Replacing get spare key made for car lost or damaged car key is costly so it's better to prevent the problem from ever happening by having a spare key made.
Another benefit of having a spare key is the possibility of sharing the vehicle with other people. If you live with your partner or have children this could be a great way to save on gas costs. It's also a good idea to have a spare in case you are going on an adventure with friends or family members.