Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
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. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions 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 cars have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of the crowbar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not work as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. make a spare key is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They must confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate your original key or able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's security system. You will need to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an unintentional signal. The signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. In fact, certain cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one 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 linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes which makes them 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 attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. make a spare car key near me can also start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible moment. You may be at the gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
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 your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having issues with your car key, or you're looking to have a spare key made for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to create an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!