Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles include security features, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly and the owner might need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to create. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you 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 turn on cars with push buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to find an locksmith in those instances.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealership. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them can make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. You will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize 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. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As spare remote car key , they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's important to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are a great option if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can not work at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at a gas station, en route to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just an instant only to realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run through your routine before picking keys.
You'll require bringing your current keys to be able to have it copied at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.
If you are having trouble with your car key or if you're looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!