Five Car Spare Key Lessons From Professionals
Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and current key prices, visit their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of the older locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of an bar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.
If you are in need of an additional 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's helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. To do this, they will need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your original key or able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's system. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are non-transponder). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or duplicated.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same functions like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes, so they're an ideal choice if require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to get into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes spare car key cutting fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you've lost the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your vehicle has remote keys, they has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, 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. We have the tools and experience to make keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!