Prevention is essential. Okay, the majority of us don’t consider how important it is to have a duplicate car key until it is too late. What happens if you misplace your car keys, lock them inside, or have a damaged key? You’ll be required to pay for a tow truck, a locksmith, and possibly even a replacement car window. Which of these is easiest to avoid? A spare automobile key or fob should always be kept on hand.
What Advantages Can You Get from Having a Duplicate Car Key or Remote?
1. Never let a lock on your car fail
Lockouts happen more frequently than you might imagine. Because of this, it’s a good idea to have a duplicate car key at a location that is simple to access, including at home, with a friend or family member, or even at the office.
2. It May Aid in Damage Prevention
Keys, fobs, and remotes will eventually start to become worn out. When keys start to deteriorate, they are more likely to break and potentially harm the lock. Issues with the battery terminal contacts, buttons, and even the shell itself can occur with fobs and remote controls. It will be possible for you to swap between the two if you have an extra key, fob, or remote, protecting them from harm and extending their lifespan.
3. Shared vehicles can use it easily.
If more than one person uses your car, it’s practical to provide each user a key or key fob. By avoiding having to hand things back and forth, you not only save time but also reduce the possibility that they will become lost or damaged.
4. Reduce the price when selling or trading in your vehicle.
You may be requested to provide a spare key or remote if you choose to trade your car in at a dealership. If you already own one, you can avoid paying the dealership’s inflated prices.
When it comes to getting a duplicate car key, there are a few things you should know before you go to your local locksmith or dealership.
What you need to know before getting duplicate car keys
Transponder keys
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that not all car keys are created equal. Some car keys, known as “transponder keys,” contain a small chip that communicates with your vehicle’s computer in order to start the engine. These types of keys can only be duplicated by a professional locksmith or dealership with the proper equipment and knowledge. If you are unsure if your car uses a transponder key, you can check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to find out.
If your car uses a transponder key, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership before a locksmith or dealership can make you a duplicate car key. This typically means showing them the car’s registration or a valid ID. This is to ensure that the duplicate key is only provided to the rightful owner of the vehicle to prevent any illegal activities.
Cost
Another thing to consider is cost. Duplicating a transponder key can be more expensive than a traditional key, so it’s a good idea to call around and compare prices before making a decision. In some cases, you may be able to save money by getting a duplicate car key directly from the dealership, but this will depend on the make and model of your car. Some dealerships may charge a flat rate for the duplication of the key, while others may charge based on the type of key, the complexity of the key, and the type of vehicle. It’s important to understand that the cost of the duplicate key may vary greatly depending on the location, the dealership, and the type of vehicle.
Key fob
It’s also important to note that some newer cars require a “key fob” in addition to a traditional duplicate car key to start the engine. These key fobs, which are small remote controls that can lock and unlock the car’s doors, often contain a small battery that will need to be replaced periodically. When getting a duplicate key, make sure to ask if your key fob also needs to be replaced. Not all key fobs are replaceable, some are sealed units that cannot be opened and the whole key fob needs to be replaced. Therefore, it’s important to check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to find out if the key fob is replaceable before you get a duplicate car key.
Type of duplicate car key
Another factor to consider is the type of duplicate car key that you need. There are many different types of keys that can be used to start a car, including traditional keys, transponder keys, smart keys, and keyless entry systems. Each type of key has its own unique features and benefits, and the type of key that is right for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Some keys may require special programming or coding, which can add to the cost of the duplication.
Security
Another aspect to consider is the security of your vehicle. If you are getting a duplicate key for your car, it’s important to think about the potential security risks that come with having multiple keys for the same car. While having a duplicate key can be very useful in case you lose your original key, it can also pose a security risk if the duplicate key falls into the wrong hands. If you are concerned about the security of your vehicle, you may want to consider getting a keyless entry system or a smart key, which offers added security features such as remote start and remote locking and unlocking.
In summary, before getting a duplicate car key, you should know:
- If your car uses a transponder key
- Proof of ownership is required
- The cost of duplication
- If your car requires a key fob
- If your key fob also needs to be replaced
By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure that you get the right key for your car and avoid any unnecessary expenses.
Avoid the hassle of lost or damaged keys with YH Locksmith
When it comes to the process of getting a duplicate car key, it’s important to choose a reputable locksmith or dealership. Not all locksmiths or dealerships have the proper equipment or knowledge to duplicate transponder keys or program smart keys. It’s important to do your research
Get a duplicate set of keys for added peace of mind with YH Locksmith
If you lost your car keys and need a duplicate, we can help. Our YH Lock & Security locksmiths have extensive experience duplicating a wide variety of car keys for clients across Las Vegas. Our skilled professional locksmiths are available 24/7 to assist you with all of your locksmith needs. To learn more about duplicating car keys or any other lock issue, contact us
