5 Car Spare Key Lessons From Professionals
Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties 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. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of the older locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a great 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 the help of a bar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you are locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can also create key fobs for push button start cars.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to find an locksmith in those instances.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make your spare key quickly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it how much are spare car keys harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the best choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a new spare or have lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare key maker near me car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional metal car keys. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day only to realize you forgot your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and create new keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run around before you pick keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare keys cut car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to make a spare car key that will last a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!