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, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of older key locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a good start but the valet key has its drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use the Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not function as intended, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you are in 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 important to know the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their simple edges. locked key in car no spare don't come with transponders and don't require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for push button start cars.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's key system. You'll have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). As such, they are the best choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towing after a the theft. It can also be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare or lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like 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 the station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and create new keys right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or you're interested in getting a spare key made for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it safe!