Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
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 usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using the help of a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this happening.
If you're in the need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member who you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate a store near you by going to their website. Some of them can also create key fobs for push button start cars.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to visit an locksmith in those instances.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can create 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 do that.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. 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 key in order to provide the same function like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you require a replacement for your spare or lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a congested parking spot.
Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at the gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or heading home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.
You will need to bring your current keys to be able to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We'll have the tools and know-how to design an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!