Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original function of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the driver's side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles include security features by limiting power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not function as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working abruptly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
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 get your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
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 are able to create a new key for you. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same function as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are the best choice if you need a new spare or lost yours.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. spare car key made near me is a tiny transmitter that looks more 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 lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys right on the spot.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!