Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. understanding is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of the older locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a great beginning but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the help of a Crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member who you can trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
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 own the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able duplicate the original key or in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. You will have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is the serial number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, certain cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require a replacement for your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible moment. You might be at a petrol station, heading to buy some groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.
You will require bringing your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!