Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys before heading out.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can unlock the driver's door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without its weaknesses. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use a Crowbar to open them. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as intended, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. make spare car key near me are also able to handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car if you need to lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. KeyMe is typically 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 produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
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 key for you. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able to duplicate the original key or able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin 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. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. In fact, some cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob or create a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles which makes them the best choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
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 can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most difficult times. You could be at a gas station, on your way to get groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed 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 up your car keys.
You'll require bringing your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car key or if you're just interested in getting a spare key made to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!