Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a bar to force them open. Furthermore, get spare key made for car for valet have weaker locks than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this issue.
If you're in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require encryption. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if you need to get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're 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 which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a backup key made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare key or lose it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. get spare key made will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You may be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new keys right on the spot.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to get it copied at one of our stores. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to be secure. We'll have the tools and experience to create an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!