Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for using a valet key is to prevent theft. spare keys for cars is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an Crowbar to open them. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in the need of an additional 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 in hand when you go in for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car if you need to get locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern 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 start cars by pushing buttons.
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 able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare 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 feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a spare key made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
You'll have to bring your current key with you to get it duplicated at one of our stores. 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 keys, or if you're looking to get a spare key made for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that will last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!