Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before going out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of older lock keys. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good beginning but the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using a bar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, the valet key may not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a valid spare key in case of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. getting a spare key for my car are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can give it to 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 at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to visit an locksmith in those instances.
If you have a smart 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 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 locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same functions like the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote make a spare key of modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient times. You may be at a gas station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they will have a chip that needs to 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, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate make a spare key or fob we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to make an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!