Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. spare key cost can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great beginning, but the valet key has its drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use the bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly and the owner could require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you need to get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll require proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. You'll be required to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). As such, they are the best choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need to replace the spare key or have lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult times. You might be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get 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 specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to feel secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to make an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!