Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
spare car key price , including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy car keys and fobs. For more information 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 does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original function of older lock keys. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of the bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, the valet key may not work as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is important to know the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and robust. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for 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 stores also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key, they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your car removed after a the theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys may malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You could be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to create keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!