Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you 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 where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However, get spare key made can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use an bar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than the normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is important to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't come with transponders and do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to go to a locksmith in these cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-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 chips keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a spare key made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace your key fob or create a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as the original key.
cheap spare car keys may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare or have lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can not work at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at a petrol station, en route to get groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.
You'll need to bring your current key with you to get it copied at one of our stores. get spare key made will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're just looking to get an extra key to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to design a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!