Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of key locks from the past and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a good starting point, but the valet key has its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the crowbar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you're in the 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 helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their simple edges. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car in the event that you ever get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. replacing car keys without spare will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it is essential to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. It can also be quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. spare car key cutting near me can also 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 a great option when you have to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys may malfunction at the most inconvenient times. You may be at the station, on your route to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
You'll need to bring your current key with you to get it copied at one of our stores. 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 require a spare car key or you wish to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to make a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!