Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys prior to going out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of locks from earlier times. They can open the driver's side door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a good start but the valet key has its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use an bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in 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 and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not come with a transponder, so they don't require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you are locked out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new key for you. To do this, they'll require proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You will have to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an unintentional signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). As such, they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.
If get a spare car key 've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be paired with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car removed after a the theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to a dealership.
In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost key.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys may not work at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key it will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
You will require bringing your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or you're looking to have a spare key made to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to design an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!