Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. spare keys act as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of the bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit 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 handy when you go in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. If the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also 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 non-transponder). They are therefore the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive can replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it could be faster 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 vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
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 will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at the station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they has a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.
If you are having trouble with your car key, or you're looking to get a spare key created to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!