Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn’t matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to going out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but it isn’t able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer’s vehicle. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers’ vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver’s side, but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn’t without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can force them open with the use of a crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected, particularly if it’s been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. 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 need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it’s helpful if you have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don’t have a transponder and therefore do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks therefore you’ll need to go to a locksmith in these cases.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To do this, they’ll need evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They’ll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car’s security system. You will have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the G28 Car Keys, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key’s code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is found, the car’s immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Certain cars won’t start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren’t transponder). This is why they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they’re stolen it is essential to have a backup key made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes and are a great option if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.
It’s essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also aid in finding your car in case you’re in a rush. If you’re worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option of “summoning” your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla’s summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a congested parking spot.
Car keys can stop working at the most difficult moments. You might be at the station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day only to realize you’ve lost the spare car key cost key. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it’s likely to have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit’s locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you’re interested in getting a spare key created to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to make keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!