Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before leaving.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still open the driver's side door, but not the trunk or console lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not function as intended particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's important to know the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoders. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and robust. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an unintentional signal. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually less expensive than having your car towed after theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars, so they are an excellent choice if you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult times. You may be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.
You will need to bring your current key to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If get spare key made for car having issues with your car key, or if you're just looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!