Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the use of a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate 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 lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They can duplicate your key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. You'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). As such, they are the best choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or design an uncut switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.
car key spare near me can replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are a great choice when you need a new spare or have lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can stop working at the most difficult times. You may be at a gas station, on your route to get groceries, or returning back home after a long day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and make new keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of 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 need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
If you are having trouble with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key created to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!