What Is The Reason Car Spare Key Is The Right Choice For You?

Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of older key locks and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use a bar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as planned 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 an expert locksmith to replace it. 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 your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They also can handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member you are confident to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce 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 look online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.

If you have an electronic key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key, they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can begin.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same function like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key car key or have lost key fob Programming cost.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.

Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst time. You may be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning back home after a long day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and provide new keys right on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.

You will have to bring your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to make a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it safe!