Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
spare key maker for cars preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They are able to unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a bar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. 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 need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you go in to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoding. They are made of nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you trust to drive your car if you get locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or 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, blank key. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them a great option if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can not work at the most difficult moments. You might be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning home from a busy day only to realize you forgot your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and make new keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do around before you pick keys.
You will require bringing your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or you're looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it secure!