Types of Car Spare Keys
If you’ve lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to open a driver’s door but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key has its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it’s been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.
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 repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They don’t contain transponders and do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars with push button start.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks, therefore you’ll need to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key, they’ll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They’ll be able duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car’s key system. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you’re planning to visit these locations to get your spare car key cutting near me key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle’s computer. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it’s important to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive 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 for spare car key a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car towed after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes which makes them an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare car key cut key or have lost it.
It’s important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you’re concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than the traditional car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars even have the option of “summoning” your car by pressing a button, how much is a spare car key like Tesla’s summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most inconvenient moments. You might be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you’ve lost the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and create new key replacements immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit’s locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we’ll need to know your car’s YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the tools and experience to create an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!