Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Make sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the driver's side door but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use a crowbar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to make sure that you have a valid spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's important to know the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't have transponders and don't require encoders. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you are confident to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to obtain a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence 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 can make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate your original key or able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's system. get a spare car key made will have to know the year and make of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or 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 up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). This is why they are the best choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob or create an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost yours.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even come with 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 tight space.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You could be at a petrol station, en route to pick up some groceries, or perhaps driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! 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 must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.
You will need to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We'll have the tools and experience to design an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Keep it secure!