Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for using a valet key is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of the older locks and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great starting point, but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a bar. Furthermore, spare key replacement for valet have weaker locks than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.
If you are in need of an additional 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 in hand when you come in for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a family member whom you trust to drive your car in the event that you get locked out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a replacement key 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 to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. auto key spares is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. 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.
You'll need to bring your current key to get it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!