Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car 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 private parties to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of the older locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key is not without its weaknesses. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use an bar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly and the owner could require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When i need a spare key for my car visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of re-keying it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the best choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare key or lose it.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it secure!
