Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys before heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of the older locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly, and the owner may require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. spare keys of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. 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 get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your car towed and recovered following theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible moment. Recommended Online site could be at a gas station, en route to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.
Visit spare keys if you require a spare car keys or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!