There are many benefits to having a car key replacement. First, if you lose your keys, or they are stolen your day won’t be disrupted and you won’t be locked out of the car. You’ll have a spare set to use. Similarly, if a family member is sharing use of the car temporarily, you can give them the spare set to use. Car owners gain a lot from having two car keys or even a third key. It will certainly take a weight off your back by duplicating car keys.
Losing your car keys can be a frustrating and costly experience. If you’re lucky, you may find them hidden in between the cushions of your couch or in the glove compartment of your car. However, if your keys are truly lost or stolen, there are a few steps you should take to minimize the damages. First, call your insurance company to see if you’re covered for key replacement. You should also notify the police to file a report, for insurance purposes, but also in case someone finds the keys and hands them in.
You will of course, need to get a new key. Here at Locksmith Tacoma, we offer an affordable and professional car key duplication service. Be sure to change the locks on your doors to prevent anyone from gaining access to your vehicle. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your car stays safe and secure – even if your keys are no longer.
Getting a replacement car key used to be a pretty simple process. You would take your old key to the dealership, they would make you a new one, and you would be on your way. However, things have changed in recent years. With the advent of keyless entry and ignition, cars have become much more difficult to steal. As a result, the automotive industry have implemented new security measures to make sure that only authorized individuals are able to get replacement keys. At Locksmith Tacoma we take security seriously. We will require proof of ownership and a photo ID. In some instances, additional documentation may be required, such as a vehicle registration or insurance card. While these new security measures may seem like a hassle, they are necessary to protect your investment and keep your car safe from thieves.
Gone are the days where duplicate car keys are made from a wax mold. It simply can’t be done with the transponder keys, or laser cut keys we have today. However, the duplication process for a car key is still relatively simple. The locksmith will identify the key code from the vehicles VIN number and this can be programmed into the car key duplicator machine. Using a blank key, the machine then cuts the correct pattern into the blank key. This process takes only a few minutes and you can then have the key programmed to connect with your car. At Locksmith Tacoma we have a duplication machine that has the capability to make precise key cuts for a range of vehicles. We also stock a range of key blanks, all ready to go.
There many different types of car keys out there. The age of your car will impact the type of key you have and the type of key significantly affects the price of the duplicate key.
This basic car key is not so common anymore. On older vehicles you may still find a traditional metal blade key, but often the keys have been upgraded. A traditional metal key simply doesn’t offer the same security guarantees as a transponder key for example. Traditional keys are the easiest to duplicate and therefore the cheapest. You’ll be able to get a basic key such as this duplicated at your local hardware store.
Transponder keys were made standard in all vehicles in the US in the 90’s. They have a transponder chip inserted in the plastic head of the key that communicates with your cars engine immobilizer. These chips have an encrypted code which is unique to each vehicle, this makes it much harder for thieves to create duplicate keys. If the wrong key is used, the car will not start. If your transponder key is lost or stolen, it can be deactivated so that it can no longer be used to start your car. Also they are often equipped with special features that make them more difficult to copy or tamper with. As a result, transponder keys provide an extra level of security against theft. There is an added cost as transponder keys require programming to your specific vehicle.
A car key fob is a small, handheld device that is used to activate a car’s ignition, locking mechanisms and other functions. Key fobs typically contain either a physical key (Switchblade keys) or a keyless entry system, and they are generally much more convenient to use than traditional keys. They allow us to remotely unlock and lock our doors, from a distance of about 30 feet. They can even start our engines without having to put a key in the ignition. Many new cars utilize key fobs, but they can be retrofitted to older cars as well. Car key fobs are notoriously expensive to replace, and unfortunately, easy to lose.
A smart key is essentially a step up from a key fob. They act like a proximity key that allows you to lock, unlock and start your engine without having to remove it from your pocket. You don’t even have to press the unlock button, the doors will automatically unlock as you approach. In addition a smart key can store information about your car like mileage and service history that can make visiting the dealership or mechanics much easier.
Here at Locksmith Tacoma we offer a comprehensive car key duplication service tailored to your needs.
We have the latest equipment for creating keys and the ability to program keys for a wide range of car models.
Our prices are very competitive. Do yourself a favor and shop around, we’re confident that you’ll find our prices affordable in comparison to alternative options. Our friendly and helpful staff ensure customer satisfaction, and we’re fully mobile. A major bonus. You don’t have to drive across town to get a key duplicated, we’ll come to you and complete it on-site, immediately. We offer a rapid emergency locksmith service, anytime you are in drastic need, you can guarantee we’ll be at your service. 24/7 locksmith service guarantee.
Contact us today to enquire about our car key duplications service or other automotive locksmith services. We can duplicate a whole range of car keys including basic car keys, and we come to your location.
In addition, if your key requires programming there will be an extra cost for key programming, which can add another $50 to the bill. Given these costs, it’s no wonder that many drivers choose to invest in duplicate keys.
Great locksmith service! I was locked out of my house and within 20-30 min the locksmith came to the rescue and unlocked my house quickly. It was very good experience. Thank you! Highly recommend.
Immediately I could tell this locksmith takes his job very seriously. Very professional and he treated us with the kindness and respect. Provided an estimate upfront - did all is necessary to ensure his customers satisfaction. Great service.
Miki the owner came out and gave a free estimate before arrival. I felt like the price was beyond fair for the work. I was impressed by how fast he was here and got the job done. I definitely recommend Locksmith Tacoma and will use them again in the future.
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