Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing car keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason to use valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of older key locks, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.
These features are a good starting point but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the use of a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make your spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do 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
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. spare key cost contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions like the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for all kinds and models of automobiles, so they are a great choice when you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is 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.
Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You might be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has remote keys, they will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your errands before picking up the car keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!