Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping, or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines which can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare 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. need a spare key for my car are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of older key locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Certain luxury cars come with security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without weaknesses. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use a Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key might cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you go in to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't come with transponders and don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealership. They'll need to confirm 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 the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They'll be able duplicate your original key or in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's key system. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will not start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. It's also quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes and are an excellent choice if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to 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 useful if you need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a gas station, on your way to buy some groceries, or simply returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.
You will require bringing your current keys to get it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're just looking to have an extra key for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!