15 Unexpected Facts About Car Spare Key You Didn't Know
Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. spare car key maker are usually utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key isn't without weaknesses. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a Crowbar to open them. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not function as intended, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
If you are in need of an additional 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's beneficial to have the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder and therefore do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you can trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily 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 by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to find an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them can make your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's system. You will have to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap the key fob or design a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or have lost yours.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced as well as aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a gas station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home from a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking up the keys.
You'll require bringing your current key with you to get it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to be secure. We'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!