Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key for cars car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
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 less expensive than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for using valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.
These features are a great starting point but the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly, and the owner may need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.
If you're in the need of a new 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 important to know the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key, they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars won't start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles, so they are the best choice if you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, store it in the car's 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. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also 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 how much is a spare key for a car useful for those who need to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You may be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize you forgot to bring a spare car keys cost key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have 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 key or if you're looking to get an extra key to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!