Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and 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 goes out.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the use of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is crucial to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for locks with high security, 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 have one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate the original key or in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your car removed after a the theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them a great option if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
cheap spare car keys to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.
Car keys can stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You may be at a gas station, en route to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and make new keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You will have to bring your current keys to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the expertise and tools to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!