Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason for using valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of key locks from the past and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the use of a bar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this issue.
If you're 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 handy when you come in for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They do not have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member who you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks therefore you'll need to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to get an alternative from the dealership. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. You'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare or lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may not work at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or returning back home after a long day only to realize you forgot your spare key. This can be very frustrating! spare car key price of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.
You'll have to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or you're interested in getting a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!