Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is switched off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
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 helpful to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of 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 find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near you by visiting their website. Some of them can also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can create you a new key, they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or design an uncut switchblade key that can be paired with the original key.
spare car key replacement cost can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered after a theft. It's also quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, en route to get groceries or just returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you're interested in getting an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!