Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
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 glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. recommended you read are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key could act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the help of a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start 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. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same function as the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes and are an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If recommended you read worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You could be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.
You'll require bringing your current key with you in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or you're looking to have an extra key to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!