Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy keys for cars 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 typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.
These features are a good start however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a Crowbar to open them. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not function as intended, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare car key cut key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make a spare car key key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks so you will need to go to a locksmith in these cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key for my car key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You will be required to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic 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 turned on, this microchip sends an unintentional signal. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare keys near me created as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often cheaper than having your car towing after a theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are a great choice when you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst time. You might be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day, only to discover that you've lost your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely how to get spare car key have a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed 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 before picking up the car keys.
You will need to bring your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
If you are having trouble with your car key or if you're looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it safe!