Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason for using valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a good start however, the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the help of a crowbar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a valid spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't contain a transponder and therefore don't require encryption. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
Call ahead before going to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to create keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to find a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You will have to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the best choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote make spare key near me of modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run around before you pick keys.
You will require bringing your current key with you to get it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to create keys that last for the rest of your life. Keep it secure!