Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of older lock keys. They can unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a great start but the valet key has its flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an crowbar to force them open. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's system. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
spare car key fob to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys may not work at the most inconvenient times. You may be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking up the keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to get it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car key, or you're interested in getting a spare key created for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!