Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of locks from earlier times. They can still open the door to the driver's side but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good start however, the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with a crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to make sure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. spare key maker near me is usually found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find a store near you by going to their website. Some stores make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some may not be able of making keys for locks with high security, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like 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 your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. You will need to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. This signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a spare key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same function like the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at the gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, 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 tools and experience to make keys that last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!