Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it back while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is switched off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.
If you are in 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 get your car key, it's helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE 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, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you are locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in 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 stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's security system. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's important to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes, so they're an ideal choice if need to replace the spare key or have lost key.
It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a congested parking spot.
Car keys can sometimes not work at the most difficult times. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries, or perhaps driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You will have to bring your current key with you to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to create a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!