Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of older lock keys. They are able to open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In get spare key made may not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
If you are in need of a new 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 replace your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a family member who you can trust to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to visit an locksmith in those instances.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will require the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you will need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if need to replace the spare key or have lost key.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible moment. cheap spare car keys could be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or returning back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, usually in 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 get it copied at one of our locations. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're just looking to have a spare key created to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!