Types of car spare keys (his comment is here)
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car keys spare 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 car keys and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare 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 usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury cars come with security features like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can 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 in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within 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.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll require proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll want to have 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 utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain 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 best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths 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 for spare car key a lot however, they are typically less expensive than having your car removed after a theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned 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, a key fob is required in addition to the 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 unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can not work at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you're interested in getting a spare key created for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last how much for spare car key the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!