Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing 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 equipment that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
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 glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. auto key spares are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great beginning but the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could cease to function suddenly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's important to know the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. spare car key replacement cost will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys 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 lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. It's also quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most inconvenient moments. You might be at the station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you forgot the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
You'll have to bring your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob, 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 to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that can last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!