Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. spare key maker for cars are able to open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use an bar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you go in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to create keys for locks with high security, so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To do this, they will need evidence of ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are therefore the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often less expensive than having your car removed after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting a dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can 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 ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. spare key cost can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're just looking to have an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!