Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel 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 cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for having valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. spare car key cutting near me acts as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using the help of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner might need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have a spare.
If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't have a transponder and therefore do not require encryption. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of 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 by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealer. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If car key spare near me have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system of the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a spare key made as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most inconvenient times. You may be at the gas station, on the way to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you've lost the spare key. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
You will need to bring your current key with you in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
If you are having trouble with your car key or if you're just looking to get an extra key to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!