Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of older key locks and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare car key price.
If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain a transponder and therefore don't require encoders. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you are locked out of car no spare key out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to obtain an alternative from the dealership. They must confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be paired with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your car removed after a the theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You might be at a gas station, en route to get groceries, or perhaps returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare keys for cars key along with you. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and provide new keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare keys made near me car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how to design an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!