Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn’t matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to 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 vehicle. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers’ vehicles for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it’s been dropped or damaged. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
If you’re in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don’t have transponders and do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you will need to obtain a replacement from the dealership. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. To verify this, they’ll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key car key quickly and cost-effectively. They’ll be able duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car’s system. You’ll have 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 open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle’s computers. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars won’t start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they’re stolen it’s important to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.
It’s essential to leave your spare car keys near me car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as aid in finding your car key spare cost if you’re in a hurry. If you’re concerned about leaving your spare keys made near me car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, 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 an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to “summon” your car with a single button press similar to Tesla’s summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most difficult times. You may be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or heading home from a busy day, only to discover that you’ve forgotten the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit’s locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key fob car key or if you want to feel secure. We’ll have the tools and know-how much are spare car keys to make an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!