Types of car spare keys (More about the author)
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent to make it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than the regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could cease to function suddenly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts how to get spare car keys open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car removed after a the theft. It's also quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition how to get spare car key being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles, so they are a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare key for car car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
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 than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you have to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at a gas station, heading to get groceries or just returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be extremely frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
You will have to bring your current keys in order to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!