Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to leaving.
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 allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the help of a crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly, and the owner may need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
Visit i need a spare key for my car to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require encoding. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They must confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate the original key or able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's security system. You will be required to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes and are an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Car keys may not work at the most difficult times. You may be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
You will require bringing your current keys in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key made for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!