Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Make sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before leaving.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the bar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
If you're in 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 beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't contain a transponder and therefore do not require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It 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 turn on cars with push buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they are able to make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to visit an locksmith in those instances.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an low-level signal. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. i need a spare key for my car in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater 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 preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace your key fob, or make a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your 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 repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're a great option if you need to replace your spare key or lose key.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you have to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it will have a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
You'll need to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to be secure. We have the expertise and tools to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!