Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession 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 which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
get spare key made retain the original function of older lock keys. They are able to open the driver's side 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 using the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of an bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you're in the 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 beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealer. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. cheap spare car keys in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car removed after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes 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 shops to get it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!