Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it back while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper 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 vehicle. 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 for using valet keys 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 more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of the older locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or trunk. 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 turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using a bar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. You can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are able to 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. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. You will be required to know the year and make of your vehicle to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare or have lost your keys.
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 if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You might be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that must be programmed. spare remote car key of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete around before you pick keys.
You will have to bring your current key with you to get it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to make a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!