Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn't without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the help of a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
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 is important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. replacing car keys without spare can also check online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's system. You'll have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had 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 replace your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your car removed after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most uncomfortable times. You could be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you forgot the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that needs to 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 key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run around before you pick up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to be secure. We'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!