Types of Car Spare Keys
If you’ve lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare key for car car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner’s remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers’ cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still unlock the driver’s door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key isn’t without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don’t come with transponders and don’t require encoding. They are made of nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. It is an ideal 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 to drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to 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.
If you have a smart key, you’ll have to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They’ll be able duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car’s 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
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle’s computers. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start when you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towing after a the theft. It’s also quicker than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are the best choice if you need a spare keys or lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car keys cut car spare key cost key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. 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 in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of “summoning” your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla’s summon feature. This is a great option when you have to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult moments. You may be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you’ve lost the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements immediately.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
You will have to bring your current keys to get it copied at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
If you’re having difficulty with your car key, or if you’re looking to get an extra key to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We’ll have the tools and expertise to make a spare key for cars car key that can last a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!
