What Car Spare Key Experts Want You To Know
Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which 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 type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys maintain the original function of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is turned off.
These features are a good starting point however, the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the help of a bar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require the use of encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change 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 create a new one for you. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's system. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can start.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes 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 prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
spare keys made near me have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, keys to cars aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You may be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and create new keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key it has a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do around before you pick keys.
You will have to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to create an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!