Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn’t matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but doesn’t unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for having valet keys is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can open the driver’s side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key isn’t without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as planned, particularly if it’s been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this problem.
If you’re in the 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 get your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don’t have transponders and don’t require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare car key cutting near me key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car in the event that you get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.
You’ll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key they’ll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To do this, they will need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make a spare car key your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. You’ll be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an unintentional signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key’s code in your vehicle’s computer system. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles won’t start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking, but it’s often cheaper than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. 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 key or lose it.
It’s important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you’re worried about keeping your spare car key visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone, Key Spare rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to “summon” your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla’s summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult moments. You might be at a petrol station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or Key spare for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!