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 car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of locks from earlier times. They can still unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the help of a bar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
If you are 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 and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you come in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't come with transponders and don't 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 make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal 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 need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering 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 to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to obtain an alternative from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars won't start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars, so they are a great choice when you require a replacement or lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
You'll require bringing your current key with you to get it copied at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to be secure. read this post here 'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!