Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it back while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically 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 car of a customer. However they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of older lock keys. They can still unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance 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 has its flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using a crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly, and the owner may require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have an extra.
If you're in need of an additional 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 important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and robust. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you trust to drive your car if you get locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to obtain an alternative from the dealership. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car removed after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You may be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If make a spare key near me has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're looking to get a spare key created to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!