Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of the older locks and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
These features are a great start, but the valet key has its shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use the crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances valet keys may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to make sure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
If you are in need of an additional 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's important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't have a transponder and therefore don't require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore 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. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. KeyMe is typically 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 start vehicles by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's security system. You will be required to know the year and make of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature 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 contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
In spare key fob to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Certain 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 your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towed after the theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking space.
Car keys can sometimes not work at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you've lost the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to be secure. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it secure!