Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of locks from earlier times. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of changing the key. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. You can find an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them also create key fobs for push button start cars.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks therefore you'll need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). As such, they are the best choice for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a backup key made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be paired with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare or have lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If get spare key made are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can stop working at the most difficult moments. You could be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or you're interested in getting an extra key to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to create an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!