Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. 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 machines that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason for using valet services is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great starting point, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and robust. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able of making keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to obtain a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in the car's computer system. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle tow and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars and are therefore a great choice when you need a new spare or have lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to 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 great in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit get spare key made for car if you require a spare car keys or you wish to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!