Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point however, the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't come with a transponder and therefore do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you can trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able duplicate your original key or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's security system. You'll be required to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare or lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst time. spare key maker for cars may be at a gas station, on your way to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
You'll need to bring your current key with you to get it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're just interested in getting a spare key made for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!