Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn’t matter if you’ve lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of 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 regular replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers’ vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver’s side, but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is switched off.
These features are a good beginning however, the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with a bar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key might not function as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.
If you’re in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don’t come with transponders and don’t require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car 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. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks therefore you’ll need to find a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you’ll have to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key, they’ll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You’ll need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key’s code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won’t start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren’t transponder). They are the preferred option for those who want to lower the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it’s usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes which makes them an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.
It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will make finding your car easier in case you’re in a rush. If you’re worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to “summon” your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla’s summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking space.
Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or perhaps returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for one second only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip which must 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 in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your errands and then pick up your car keys.
You’ll need to bring your current key to be able to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob we’ll need spare car key 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 feel secure. We’ll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure it’s secure!