The Top Car Spare Key Gurus Are Doing 3 Things
Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, missing car keys happens. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys like a limited 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. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this issue.
If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encoders. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal is the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can start.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a spare 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 key in order to provide the same function as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the 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 car by pressing a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. G28 is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.
You'll have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it safe!