Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can unlock the driver's door, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good start, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of an bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is crucial to make sure that you have a working spare key in the event of this issue.
If you're in the need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They do not come with a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. spare remote car key have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with a blank, programmable key. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a backup key made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same function like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car removed after a the theft. It can also be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a new spare or have lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
spare key replacement offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You might be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys right on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!