Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key serves as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of the older locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the help of a crowbar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.
If you're in the need of a new 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 model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't contain transponders and do not require encoders. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also make key fobs for cars with push button start.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to obtain a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You will have to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal contains a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are therefore the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
spare car key fob can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore a great choice when you need a new spare or have lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst time. You may be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for a second and then realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and make new keys right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're just interested in getting an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!