Why Car Spare Key Isn't As Easy As You Imagine

Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and Car Spare Keys mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The main reason to use valet services is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.

These features are a great beginning but the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the use of a crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations valet keys 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 will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to get a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't contain a transponder and therefore do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.

Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you are locked out.

Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able of making keys for locks with high security, so you will need to find a locksmith in these cases.

If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.

If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. In fact, certain cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a backup key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.

In addition to re-making the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and Car Spare Keys models of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare or lost key.

It's important to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to get into a tight parking space.

car spare keys keys can sometimes malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. 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 an extra key for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design keys that last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!