Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare keys near me 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 equipment that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the driver's side door but not the console or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key isn't without shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial 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 replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encryption. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find a store near you by going to their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's security system. You will need to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). As such, they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car removed after a theft. It can also be quicker than visiting 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 duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes, so they're an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key or lose key.
It's important to keep your spare car keys made car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced as well as help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or perhaps driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare car key cut key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements immediately.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!