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 go get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of the older locks and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a great beginning but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use an crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not work as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this issue.
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 for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They can also endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). This is why they are the best choice when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a spare key made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can not work at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
You will require bringing your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit spare remote car key if you need a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!