Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession 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 equipment that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However, spare car keys can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of older key locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the help of a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner might require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you visit for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some may not be able to create keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to go to an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. It's also quicker than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes which makes them an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional metal car keys. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. It also lets you 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 great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may not work at the most uncomfortable times. You may be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be very frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking keys.
You will have to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your particular car.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or if you're just interested in getting a spare key created to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to design keys that last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!