The Myths And Facts Behind Car Spare Key
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession 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 copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good starting point, but the valet key has its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner might need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They do not come with a transponder, so they don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of 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 best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to go to an locksmith in those instances.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's system. You will be required to know the year and make of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a backup key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair your key fob or create an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting the dealership.
i lost my car keys with no spare can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost yours.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears 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 allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a petrol station, heading to pick up some groceries, or simply 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 a huge hassle! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how to make an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!