Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before leaving.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original function of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use an bar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not function as intended, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's key system. You'll need to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's important to have a backup key made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your car towed after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or have lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You might be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've forgotten your spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and create new keys immediately.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You will need to bring your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be car key copy online to keep it safe!