10 Car Spare Key That Are Unexpected
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can open the driver's side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key comes with shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of an Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner might need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential 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 and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you come in for the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to get an alternative from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars won't start when you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare or lost key.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need keys in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
spare keys have the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.
Car keys can malfunction at the most difficult moments. You may be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with 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 do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and experience to design a spare car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!