See What Car Spare Key Tricks The Celebs Are Utilizing
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason for using valet services is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using the use of a bar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
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 replace your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They do not have a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of having to re-key it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize 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. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare key for car made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often less expensive than having your car removed after a the theft. It can also be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car key spare when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst time. You might be at a gas station, or on your way to get a spare car key made groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
If you're having difficulty with your car key, or you're interested in getting an extra key to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car Spare Key key that will last for the rest of your life. Keep it safe!