Why Car Spare Key Is Harder Than You Imagine
Types of car spare keys (More suggestions)
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at 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 fails to function.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.
If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car in the event that you get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them also create key fobs for push button start cars.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able 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 issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key car key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). They are the best choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function like the original key.
Transponder key replacements 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 less time-consuming 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 hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars, so they are the best choice if you need a spare or have lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your car key spares by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or heading 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 can repair and create new keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key cut car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how to design a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!