Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, missing car keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions 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 the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point, but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't have transponders and don't require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them make key fobs to push button start cars.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might 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 dealership. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To do this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal is an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create keys that are blank and 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, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if need to replace your spare key or lose it.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, keys to cars aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You might be at a gas station, on your way to buy some groceries or just returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be very frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that requires programming. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.
You will need to bring your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the tools and experience to create keys that last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!