Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of key locks from the past and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine has been switched off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an bar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have a spare.
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. It is a good idea to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. You can find a store near your location by checking their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to make keys for high-security locks so you will need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start when you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). spare remote car key are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towing after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries or just returning home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and make new keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're looking to have an extra key to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!