5 Car Spare Key Projects That Work For Any Budget
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys before heading out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of older lock keys. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is switched off.
These features are a good start however, the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can force them open with the use of a crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this issue.
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 a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to request an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is an ideal 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 family member who you can trust to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.
Read A lot more before visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to determine 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 a smart key, you'll need to obtain an alternative from the dealership. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the car's computer system. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a the theft. It's also quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore a great choice when you need a new spare or have lost yours.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst time. You could be at a gas station, on your way to pick up some groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to complete your errands before picking up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're looking to get a spare key made for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!