Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like 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. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great beginning however, the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this issue.
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. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't contain a transponder and therefore do not require encoders. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able of making keys for locks with high security, so you will need to visit an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
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. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles, so they are the best choice if you need a new spare or lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. related resource site are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can not work at the most difficult moments. You might be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day, only to discover that you've lost the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking keys.
You'll need to bring your current keys to get it copied at one of our locations. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how to make a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!