How To Tell If You're Prepared For Car Spare Key
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it away when you went to get your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before heading out.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of older key locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a great beginning however, the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the use of a Crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial 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 replace your car key, it's helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have a transponder and therefore don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You could even leave it with a family member whom you 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 at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. You can find an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.
It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks so you will need to find a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To do this, they will need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.
If supplemental resources have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able duplicate your original key, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's system. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars and are therefore the best choice if you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient times. You may be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day only to realize you've lost the spare key. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you're interested in getting a spare key made to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. supplemental resources have the tools and experience to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!