Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of older key locks and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.
These features are a good starting point but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a bar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not function as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member whom you trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate stores near you by visiting their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts store or 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 handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key's code in the car's computer system. When the correct code is matched, 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. In fact, some vehicles won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same function as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes which makes them an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced as well as make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult times. You might be at a gas station, on your way to pick up some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it will have a chip 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 car keys while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
You'll have to bring your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're looking to have a spare key created to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!