Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of older lock keys. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also 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 great beginning however, the valet key has its flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an bar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important 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 replace your car key, it's important to know the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to make keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to find an locksmith in those instances.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars won't start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same function as your original key.
duplicate car key cost can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towed after the theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost it.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a 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.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries, or simply driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip 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 do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.
You'll require bringing your current key to get it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're looking to get an extra key for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!