Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of the older locks and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. 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 vehicle being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great starting point, 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 open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
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. It is a good idea to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't contain transponders and do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. Visit getting a spare key for my car to locate a store near you. Some of them make key fobs to push button start cars.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may 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. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To verify this, they will need evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able duplicate the original key or able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. You will have to know the year and make of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if you want to minimize the risk 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 soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
In addition to being able to replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You could be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and make new keys right on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're interested in getting a spare key created to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design keys that last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!