Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep auto key spares and check the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to going out.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but doesn't 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 working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can unlock the driver's door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an Crowbar to open them. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as intended, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this problem.
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 replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They do not come with a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You will have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a spare key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after a theft. It can also be quicker than visiting the dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote auto key spares require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to 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 useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at a petrol station, heading to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having issues with your car key or if you're just interested in getting a spare key created for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to make keys that last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!