Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason for using valet services is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the driver's side door but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without weaknesses. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a bar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
If you're in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not have a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before view website can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin 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. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. It's also quicker than going to a dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you require a replacement for your spare or lost key.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home from a busy day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run errands before picking keys.
You'll require bringing your current key to get it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or you're looking to have an extra key for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it safe!