Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of locks from earlier times. They are able to unlock the driver's door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a great beginning but the valet key has its drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of the Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner could require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
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. It is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They do not have a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of having to re-key it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also create key fobs for push button start cars.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks therefore you'll need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). These keys are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars and are therefore an excellent choice if you require a replacement or lost your keys.
It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
make a spare key near me allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient times. You might be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or heading back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do through your routine before picking keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the tools and experience to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!