Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, missing keys to cars 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 equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for having valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of the older locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than the regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare car key cost key will 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 separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. 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 visiting their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make spare car key an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do this, so you'll be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare keys near me key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). 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 the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a backup key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore the best choice if you need spare car key a spare or lost yours.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car key spare when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, keys to cars aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You might be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete around before you pick up the keys.
You will require bringing your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car key or if you're just interested in getting an extra key to ensure your safety, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!