Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to going out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using a crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a valid spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't have transponders and do not require encoding. car key spare near me are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them also make 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 check their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able of making keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to obtain a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. To do this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with a blank, programmable key. You'll have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. It's also quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes which makes them a great option if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You could be at the gas station, on the way to get groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost your spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking keys.
You will have to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!