Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
spare car key cost for using valet keys is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. spare keys for cars can unlock the driver's door but not the console or trunk lock. Full Review include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you're in the 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 get your car key, it's important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. 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. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to 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 activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal is an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's important to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be paired with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles and are a great option if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, store it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries, or perhaps returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.
You'll have to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car key or you're looking to get a spare key made to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to create an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!