Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. 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 machines that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a good start but the valet key comes with flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. spare remote car key might stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
If car spare key maker are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to 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 model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't come with a transponder and therefore do not require encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services 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 visiting their website. Some of them can also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
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 have the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able duplicate your key from the beginning or able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will want to have that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition 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 require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. 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, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to buy some groceries, or perhaps driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run around before you pick keys.
You will require bringing your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!