Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key cost car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent to make it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine turning off.
These features are a great start however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.
If you're in the need of an additional 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's beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find a store near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to purchase an alternative from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an unintentional signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key for car cost or lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys 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 when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare key for my car car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You could be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving back home after a long day only to realize you forgot the spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get a spare car key made it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to create a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!