Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still open the driver's side door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good start but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the use of a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace 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 require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
spare keys for cars are simple in design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to go to an locksmith in those instances.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike 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. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key's code in the car's computer system. If the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it is essential to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key or lose key.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote you can try these out require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to create keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!