Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. 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 machines which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper 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 are also used by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great start but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the help of a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
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 repair your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require the use of encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. car spare key near me can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. 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 on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. spare car keys made near me is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. car spare key near me emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start when 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 vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same function as the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered following theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if need to replace the spare key or have lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional keys for cars 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 the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst time. You may be at a gas station, heading to buy some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and create new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car key or if you're just interested in getting a spare key created for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!