Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a good starting point, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not work as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to make sure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.
If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not come with a transponder, and so they do not require the use of encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member who you can trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's security system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. you could try this out can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them an excellent choice if you need a new spare or lost yours.
It is essential 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 rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at a gas station, en route to get groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run around before you pick up the keys.
You'll require bringing your current keys in order to have it copied at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!