15 Interesting Facts About Car Spare Key You Didn't Know
Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants as well as 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 remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. make a spare key near me do not have a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you ever get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. You'll be required to know the year and make of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!