Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys during a shopping trip or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare 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 equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of the older locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.
These features are a good starting point however, the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the help of a bar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have simple edges. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to go to an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will be required to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed 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, certain cars will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same function as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. spare car key price can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare key or have lost it.
It is essential to store your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You might be at the gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key it has a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do errands before picking keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to make keys that last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!