Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car spare key cost keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car spare key. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of locks from earlier times. They can open the driver's side door, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars include security features like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using a crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly, and the owner may need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key for car cost key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.
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 own the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.
If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You'll be required to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, store it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, how much are spare car keys like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible moment. You may be at the gas station, on the way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new keys immediately.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run around before you pick 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 issues with your car key or if you're interested in getting a spare key made to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to make a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it safe!