Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
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 usually used 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 gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of lock keys from the past. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is switched off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial 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 a simple edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's security system. You'll have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a spare key made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towing after a the theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes and are an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It is 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 make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking spot.
Car keys may malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If spare key replacement is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with 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 complete around before you pick up the keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to be secure. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!