Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good beginning but the valet key has its flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this happening.
If you're 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. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to get the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. G28 can even leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's system. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some cars will not start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a the theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping 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. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can sometimes not work at the most difficult moments. You may be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle has a remote key it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.
You will need to bring your current keys to get it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to be secure. We have the tools and experience to make keys that last for a lifetime. Make sure it's secure!