Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. make a spare car key near me prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.
These features are a good starting point, 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 force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain a transponder and therefore do not require encryption. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to get an alternative from the dealership. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and affordably. They'll be able duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's security system. You will have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key's code in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to the traditional 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 a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You may be at a gas station, on the way to get groceries, or driving home from a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.
You will need to bring your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting an extra key for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to make an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!