5 Car Spare Key Projects For Every Budget
Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before leaving.
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 current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of the older locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key has its drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use an bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.
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 beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. www.g28carkeys.co.uk is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you are confident to drive your car if you need to lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also make key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered following theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you need to replace the spare key or have lost it.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible time. You could be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for a second and then realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to make an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Keep it secure!
