Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to 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 car of customers. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of locks from earlier times. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is switched off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't have transponders and do not require encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to do that.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's key system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal is an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Transponder keys how much are spare car keys not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after theft. It's also quicker than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or have lost yours.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car spare key cost keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key spare. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your car keys lost no spare by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult moments. You may be at the station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you've lost the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and create new keys on the spot.
If your car key spare cost has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or you're looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to create an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!