Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are less expensive than 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. However, they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be 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 are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key 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 and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. 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 stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealer. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. car spare key near me will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, certain cars will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for all kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore a great choice when you require a replacement or lost your keys.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You might be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've lost the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys right on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!