Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the places where you tend to leave your keys before leaving.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. get a spare car key made are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using a crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not function as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this happening.
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 make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encryption. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to obtain a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them can make your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are the best choice if you need a new spare or lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst time. You might be at the gas station, on the way to get groceries, or returning back home after a long day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You'll have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate spare key maker or key, we will need to know the vehicle'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'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!