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. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. Visit spare car key fob to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key has its flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find a store near you by going to their website. Some stores also make key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. You will be required to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible time. You might be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate Read the Full Document or key we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to create an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!