15 Unexpected Facts About Car Spare Key That You ve Never Heard Of
Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. 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 goes out.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can create you a new key, they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can 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 which makes them an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key or lose it.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare van keys key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most difficult moments. You might be at a petrol station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! The majority of our stores are able how to get spare key for car repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You'll require bringing your current key to be able to have it copied at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
If you are having trouble with your car key or you're looking to have a spare keys for cars key created for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it secure!