Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before leaving.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the 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 main reason to use valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key serves as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of the older locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key has its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use an crowbar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. 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 Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you are confident to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. You'll need to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic 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. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. In fact, certain cars will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if need to replace your spare key or lose it.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able 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 great in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, More Support to cars aren't working at the most inconvenient possible moment. You could be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!