Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a crowbar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure 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 vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car if you get locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in 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.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealer. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's system. You'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the best option if you want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a the theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars, so they are an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If i need a spare key for my car worried about leaving your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. 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 car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!