Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of older lock keys. They can open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles come with 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 comes with drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of an bar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner could need to call a locksmith to have 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 need a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some stores make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to create your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. This signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. In fact, some cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
spare keys for cars can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public place, try to keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars even 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 get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You could be at a petrol station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it will have a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're just interested in getting a spare key created to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. 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!