Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of the older locks and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great starting point, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a crowbar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner might require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
If you're in the need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in 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 recommended to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to go to a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. It's also quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes and are an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need keys in addition to a traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst time. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or perhaps driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements immediately.
If i need a spare key for my car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick up the car keys.
You'll have to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car key or if you're looking to have an extra key to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to create an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!