Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back 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 like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great beginning however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a bar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's system. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars will not start when you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). This is why they are the best choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a backup key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same functions like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered after theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes, so they're a great option if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose key.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can sometimes not work at the most inconvenient moments. You may be at the gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day only to realize you forgot your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!