Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key 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 that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the vehicle. car spare key maker can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They can open the driver's side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point however, the valet key has its flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, 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 call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's security system. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are 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. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles, so they are a great choice when you require a replacement or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep 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 car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone 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 have the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You might be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it has an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do around before you pick keys.
You will have to bring your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the expertise and tools to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!