Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare 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 standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of older lock keys. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point however, the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the use of a bar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this problem.
If you're in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
spare key cutting can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some stores make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's security system. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in the car's computer system. 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 will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being 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. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. It's also quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore the best choice if you need a new spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can not work at the most difficult times. You might be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or simply driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have 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 car key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do around before you pick 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 require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!