Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as 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 on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a bar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this problem.
If you are in need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is important to know the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare keys near me key will help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealership. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car spare key disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the best choice when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting the dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid 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 putting your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst time. You could be at a gas station, en route to get groceries, or perhaps returning home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare keys made near me key with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You will need to bring your current keys in order to have it copied at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
If you are having trouble with your car key or you're interested in getting an extra key to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to design a spare keys for cars key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!