Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security by limiting power output. This will prevent 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 isn't without weaknesses. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not function as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction, 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 helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find an outlet near you by going to their website. Some of them make key fobs to push button start cars.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They must confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate the original key or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information on hand 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 use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. This signal contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars won't start when you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your car towed and recovered following theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. helpful hints can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst time. You might be at a petrol station, on your way to buy some groceries or just returning home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.
You'll require bringing your current key in order 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.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're looking to have a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!