Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of the older locks and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.
These features are a great start however, the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can force them open with a bar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.
If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.
Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they are able to make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's security system. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an unintentional signal. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. spare renault key card of the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are therefore the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same function as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes and are an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare or lost key.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid 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 leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run through your routine before picking 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 in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the expertise and tools to make keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!