Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys before leaving.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for having valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the help of a Crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have a spare.
If you are in 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 beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to do that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They'll be able duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's security system. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do this, so you'll want to have that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it is essential to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive 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 less expensive than having your car towed after theft. It's also quicker than visiting the dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible moment. You might be at the station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.
You will have to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!