Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep an extra 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 house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are usually employed 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 access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of locks from earlier times. They can still open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine is turned off.
These features are a great beginning however, the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the help of a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner could require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have an extra.
If you're in the 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 repair your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. cheap spare car keys are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to go to a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's security system. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary 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 an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that are non-transponder). This is why they are the best option if you want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. Many automotive locksmiths 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 usually cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if need to replace your spare key or lose it.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
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. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can not work at the most inconvenient moments. You might be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it that needs to 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 are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do errands before picking keys.
You will have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know the vehicle'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 go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!