Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to going out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good start, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a bar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is essential to make sure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their simple edges. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also make key fobs for cars with push button start.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to find an locksmith in those instances.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an unintentional signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be paired with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting a dealership.
In spare remote car key to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if need to replace your spare key or lose key.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If spare car key replacement cost are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
You will need to bring your current keys to get it copied at one of our locations. 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 keys or you wish to feel secure. We have the equipment and expertise to design keys that last for the rest of your life. Keep it secure!