Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare key and 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 that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see 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 glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car key spare boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of the older locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features by limiting power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with a bar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner might need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to make sure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't come with transponders and don't require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of 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. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car spare key key. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). These keys are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare keys for cars car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key cost uk car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can sometimes not work at the most inconvenient times. You may be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car has remote keys, they has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary how to get spare car key duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys 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 stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting an extra key to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to make a spare car key that will last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!