Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping, or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of the older locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine is switched off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using the use of a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not function as expected particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if you need to get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.
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 can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership such as 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 of them will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. You will be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare key or lose it.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional car key. i need a spare key for my car looks more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You may be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Keep it safe!