Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to going out.
Grocery stores like 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. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of lock keys from the past. They can still open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good starting point but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use an Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, the valet key may not function as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential 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. It is helpful to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain transponders and do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to an locksmith in those instances.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.
It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If spare car key cost worried about leaving your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult moments. You may be at a gas station, on the way to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you forgot the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.
You'll have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to create keys that last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!