Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of the older locks, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a good start however, the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using 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 has been dropped or damaged. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to make sure that you have a working spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in the need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't come with transponders and don't require encoders. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can also make key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to go to a locksmith in those cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. You will have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to an auto dealer.
spare car key replacement can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It is essential to store your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You may be at the gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning back home after a long day only to realize you forgot the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new keys immediately.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.
You will need to bring your current keys to get it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!