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. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to going 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. 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 the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. 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 stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great start however, the valet key has its drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to make keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them can make your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which 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 an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). As such, they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars and are therefore the best choice if you require a replacement or lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. auto key spares will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible time. You could be at a gas station, heading to get groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for a second and then realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle has a remote key it has a chip that requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to get it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!