Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older key locks and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.
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 beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
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 an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able duplicate your original key, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will want to have that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. 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 best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you have to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at the gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning home from a busy day only to realize you've forgotten your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, spare key cost of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have a small chip in it that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're just looking to get a spare key created for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!