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 your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. However, they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key has its drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you go in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. 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 costs. get spare key made have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. You can locate stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an low-level signal. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best option if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towed after the theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You may be at a petrol station, heading to buy some groceries, or simply driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that requires programming. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
You will need to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're looking to get an extra key to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!