Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking 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 those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use an crowbar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations valet keys may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner might require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is essential to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this issue.
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. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You could 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 provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to visit an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. spare car key fob can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize 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. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code stored in the car's computer system. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered following theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual 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 have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can not work at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're just looking to have a spare key made to ensure your safety, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!