Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key serves as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original function of locks from earlier times. They are able to unlock the driver's door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a good start but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using a bar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner could require a locksmith to have 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 need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate stores near you by visiting their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They must confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They will 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 security system. You will be required to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered after theft. Additionally, More Support could be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes which makes them a great option if you need to replace your spare key or lose it.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst time. You might be at a petrol station, en route to get groceries or just returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
You will need to bring your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order 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 have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it safe!