Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of key locks from the past and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a great start however, the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can force them open with the use of a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly, and the owner may need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep make spare key near me separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some stores also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Some might not be able to make keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an 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 found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). They are therefore the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional metal car keys. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that needs to be 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 within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to complete your errands and then pick up your car keys.
You'll need to bring your current key with you to get it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We'll have the tools and experience to create an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!