Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit this article to find current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However, they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of the older locks and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine has been switched off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key isn't without shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a crowbar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit to request the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks therefore you'll need to find a locksmith in these cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you will need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towing after a the theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe 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 in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need keys in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible moment. You may be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run 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/fob we'll 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 have the expertise and tools to design keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!