Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare 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 machines that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been turned off.
These features are a great starting point, but the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can force them open with a bar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In lost car key and no spare of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to get the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't have transponders and don't require encoders. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can 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 find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you are locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
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 can make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks so you will need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and affordably. They'll be able duplicate the 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. You will be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. Some cars will not start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). As such, they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" 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.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, on your way to buy some groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking keys.
You'll require bringing your current key to get it copied at one of our locations. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!