Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it down when you went to get 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 prior to leaving.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. next page are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent to make it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door, but not the console or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you're in the 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 beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you go in for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some stores also make key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace 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 have the vehicle. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in the car's computer system. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). This is why they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes which makes them an excellent choice if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced as well as help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible moment. You could be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving back home after a long day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
You will need to bring your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're just interested in getting a spare key created to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!