Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the help of a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not work as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car in the event that you ever get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. spare key shop near me can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars with push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's key system. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob or create an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after a theft. It can also be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars, so they are a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you've lost the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements immediately.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have 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 complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!