Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping, or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like 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. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare 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. spare car key cutting near me are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason for using valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of older key locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is turned off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For example, some thieves 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 compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not work as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't contain transponders and do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you get locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealership. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's key system. You will need to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the best choice for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be paired with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. It can also be quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles, so they are a great choice when you need a new spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also allows you to 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 helpful for those who need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient times. You may be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day only to realize you've forgotten your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key it has a chip which needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.
You will need to bring your current keys in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!