Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car spare key cost can happen. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can still open the driver's side door, but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the help of a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this problem.
If you're in the need of an additional car Spare key key or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. You can locate stores near you by visiting their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them can make your spare key quickly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends an low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles, so they are a great choice when you need a spare or lost keys to car no spare your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare keys for cars car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car key spare in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you have to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You could be at a petrol station, heading to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements on the spot.
If your car has a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run through your routine before picking keys.
You'll require bringing your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
If you're having issues with your car key or if you're looking to get an extra key for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!