Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before leaving.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good start but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the crowbar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not function as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car if you need to lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. spare key maker near me is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). These keys are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function like the 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 lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare key or have lost it.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere 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 when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep 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 the traditional metal car keys. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can not work at the most difficult moments. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If spare key fob has a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you're looking to have a spare key made for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!