Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of lock keys from the past. They can open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without weaknesses. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use a bar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. spare car key maker could stop working suddenly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is important to know the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To do this, they will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start when you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many 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 safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. spare car key cut are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day, only to discover that you've lost your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they will have a chip that requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools 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 the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
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 a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!