Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great beginning however, the valet key comes with flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of the bar to force them open. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not function as intended, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to a locksmith in these cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal is an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a spare key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a the theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
get spare key made near me to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual 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 have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You may be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If make a spare key has a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do errands 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 to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to feel secure. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!