Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with a family member who you can trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to obtain an alternative from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. cheap spare car keys of them will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. 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 vehicle to accomplish that, so you will want to have that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have 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 to start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same functions as the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys may not work at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip that requires programming. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.
You will have to bring your current key with you to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!