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Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are most often utilized by 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 entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key is not without weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on normal replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in for a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can find an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to create keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in these cases.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your car spare key - why not check here - towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
In addition to re-making your lost or broken key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare car keys cut or lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car keys cost car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare keys for car car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your car spare keys remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Car keys can malfunction at the most difficult moments. You could be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run around before you pick up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how to make an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!