How to Get a Spare Car Key Cutting Near Me

Car keys are often lost or locked inside the trunk at the most inconvenient circumstances. A spare key can save you time and money.

Bring your current key to an Mister Minit location and an associate will use machines to trace the original contours onto the blank key. The key will be created in about 30 minutes and most locations are able to do a key/fob that can be used in push button cars.

Valet Keys

A lot of modern cars come with a valet key, a smaller version that permits drivers to start and open their car, but not the trunk or glovebox. This is to stop unscrupulous people, like valets and mechanics, from accessing your car's contents.

If you own a valet key be sure to keep it in a secure place until you are ready to use it. Also, make sure that nobody else has access to it. You could find yourself in a lot more trouble in the event that you don't. Some of the latest methods to prevent car theft include creating the code to lock your trunk and glove box using a specific key.


Some modern versions of this concept use physical locks inside the key fob that does not permit you to unlock the doors of your car, trunk or glove box. Generally speaking, these are designed to be used for people you have hired to work on your car and does not have the same degree of trust as a family member or a friend.

You can still purchase the basic key to unlock the doors, but not start your vehicle. Locksmiths can cut this key for you at a reasonable price. The next step is to find out how to program this new key, which is often described in the owner's manual. There are a lot of tutorials and videos on the internet that can assist you.

If you're not at ease cutting the spare key yourself or do not wish to pay for an expert locksmith, another alternative is to visit your local dealer or dealer that specializes in the brand of your vehicle. The dealership might be capable of cutting and programming the key for you at a lower cost than an independent auto parts store or a locksmith.

Remember that the most effective offense is a sound defense. A spare key can ease the headache of replacing your stolen vehicle.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are used in most modern cars. They have chips. This technology is designed to stop car thefts by ensuring only the owner has the right to start the car. Although this doesn't completely eliminate theft of cars, it has made it significantly more difficult for crooks to wire hot wires and steal the vehicle. You may wonder how to copy a car that has chip, or where to go for a spare key.

Transponder keys of the future are not like traditional keys. They must be programmed by a computer. This procedure is extremely complex and requires a vast technical understanding. This is why it is usually best to locate a locksmith who can provide this service. The majority of modern automotive locksmiths have the equipment and tools needed to cut and program a brand new car key for your vehicle. Some are also able to offer a mobile locksmith service so that they can be at your location and assist you solve your issue.

You'll require a working car key and a blank transponder with the same number if you want a spare key that can start your vehicle. The technician will then utilize a machine to precisely trace the contours of the original key to ensure that it can be duplicated. The key will then need to be programmed with the make and model of the vehicle.

Another option for having a spare car key that can be used is to go to your local AutoZone store. The AutoZone store can duplicate the most modern car keys quickly and effectively. This method is not as secure, however, than having a spare car key cut by an experienced locksmith.

Although some people might be enticed by large home improvement stores such as Lowe's or Home Depot for a spare car key, these stores aren't experts in this field. While they may know how to use a car key cutter, they can't provide you with the more sophisticated technology required to open a modern automobile. It is far wiser to go to an auto parts store or a dealership that offers this kind of service.

Keyless Entry Fobs

Many people today have vehicles that are keyless-entry or "smart" vehicles. The fobs let owners unlock their vehicles and start them with the push of one button. They're also integrated in sophisticated security systems for vehicles. These fobs are useful, but they're not indestructible and may stop working after some time.

There are a variety of options to replace your car's keyfob when it stops working. Online retailers may offer a discount on a new key fob, but it will likely require programming by an authorized locksmith or dealer. Programming can be expensive particularly for high-end keys that use rolling codes to protect against hackers.

You can also buy a used key fob at the local junkyard. You might find a device that matches your vehicle, but it's still a gamble because it hasn’t been tested. Check the feedback of the seller before buying a used or new fob.

Ask your automaker if it works with a third-party company to program a new or used key fob. Many dealerships will not cooperate with third-party companies however, some independent shops and mechanics will -- and those services tend to be cheaper than a dealership.

Based on the car you drive, some fobs have an embedded key made of metal within them which can be used to open the doors or start the engine in the event that the radio signal fails. However, this key has to be cut by a professional, which means it's not an option for everyone.

Fobs also require batteries to function, so they can be easily replaced with a new battery from an auto parts store or hardware shop. The cost of the new battery will vary, but typically $10 or less. The owner's manual of your vehicle or the site of the manufacturer usually provides instructions on how to replace a fob's battery, and there are plenty of YouTube videos available which can help you navigate the procedure.

Traditional Keys

The car key is an essential and widely used metal object. In the modern age, we rely on them to shield our homes, cars and belongings from theft and damage. But getting a spare key for my car weren't always durable. In fact, the earliest recorded use of a key made of metal dates to around 6 thousand years.

As the world changes and progresses, we require keys that are as reliable. Many car manufacturers and key duplicators supply laser-cut keys for owners of vehicles who want to improve their security systems against theft. Laser-cut keys offer exceptional security thanks to a unique cut pattern that is unique to each key. This unique pattern makes it impossible for thieves to duplicate or open the lock. It is a popular option for car manufacturers and for consumers.

Traditional keys however, have a simple design around the edges. The design is designed to align with the pin pattern of the lock when the key is inserted and turned. Traditional keys do not require special equipment to create them, and you can purchase copies of them from any locksmith store or hardware store without a proof of ownership.

Another reason why traditional keys are popular is their affordability. You can purchase a key blank from a hardware store to make a spare key, or make it by a locksmith at an affordable price than the cost of a key fob.

No matter what kind of key you own regardless of the type, it's always a good idea to keep a spare in your possession. If the spare key you have is damaged or lost you'll need to know how to replace it quickly and easily.

Visit your local AutoZone if you need to replace a traditional key, or a keyfob. A trained associate can utilize a precise key cutting machine on site to shape your new key to the exact contours of your current working key. All you need is a working key and a valid driver's licence to cut down on replacement costs at participating locations.