Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of older key locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.
While i need a spare key for my car are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't come with transponders and do not require encoders. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they are able to make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your original key or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the possibility that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally 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 keeping your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a petrol station, en route to get groceries or just returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is enough time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your particular car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it safe!