Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this problem.
Visit spare car key made near me to get a duplicate if you need an additional 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
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them can also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to go to an locksmith in those instances.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You will have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be 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. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap the key fob or design a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles, so they are the best choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You may be at a gas station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking keys.
You'll need to bring your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting a spare key made to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!