What Car Spare Key Will Be Your Next Big Obsession
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for having valet keys is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn't without its flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use a Crowbar to open them. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to get the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't have transponders and do not require encryption. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some stores make key fobs to cars with push button start.
It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can make you a new key they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You will need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can start.
Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a spare key made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or design an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered following theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost it.
It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. This can be very frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip which must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick up your car keys.
You will require bringing your current keys in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. spare key replacement 'll have the tools and know-how to design a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!