Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In need a spare key for my car may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get 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 require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll require proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's key system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one 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 used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same function as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can not work at the most difficult moments. You may be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day, only to discover that you've lost the spare key. This can be frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key it will have a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. 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 up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!