Why Everyone Is Talking About Car Spare Key Right Now
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. 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 the customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of key locks from the past and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key isn't without weaknesses. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not work as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car keys spare in the event you lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase an alternative from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. You will need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code in the car's computer system. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can start.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). These keys 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 have a replacement made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob or create a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are a great option if you need to replace your spare or lost key.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it in the car key spare's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most difficult moments. You could be at a gas station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize you forgot to bring a spare key for my car key along with you. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!