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Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car spare key (read page) key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a great starting point, but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare key for car cost.
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 repair your car key, it's important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't come with transponders and don't require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.
A spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, 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 make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of 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 keys spare being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or design an uncut switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered after theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key cost key in a public area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can not work at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a petrol station, en route to get groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize that you didn't carry a spare car key maker near me key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to run errands before picking keys.
You'll have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're just looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to create an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!