Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn’t matter if you’ve lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer’s vehicle. 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 for having a valet key is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers’ vehicles on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car’s glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of key locks from the past and can open a driver’s door but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the help of a Crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it’s been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call a professional 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 vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths make. They don’t have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car if you ever 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. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They’ll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car’s key system. You’ll need to know the year and make of your vehicle to get 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 that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in your vehicle’s computer system. When the correct code is matched, the car’s immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren’t only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Certain cars won’t start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). They are the best choice for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive However, it’s typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after a theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they’re an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare keys made near me or lost it.
It’s essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you’re in a hurry. If you’re concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of “summoning” your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla’s summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible moment. You could be at a petrol station, heading to buy some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, Car Spare Keys usually within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and car spare keys then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we’ll require information about your vehicle’s year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to make a spare car key an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!