Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before leaving.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the use of a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's important to know the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder and therefore don't require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a family member who you are confident to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make 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 store or locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (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 have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting a dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. spare key fob can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You may be at a gas station, on the way to get groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key . This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob 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 looking to get an extra key to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!