Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before leaving.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of older lock keys. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the help of a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.
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. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them sturdier and robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find a store near your location by checking their website. Some stores make key fobs to cars with push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealership. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's key system. You'll need to know the year and make of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
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In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the best choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. 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 place, try to keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need keys in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears 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 lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys right on the spot.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking keys.
You will have to bring your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to make a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!