5 Car Spare Key Lessons From Professionals
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Be 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.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car spare key cost keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key serves as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of the older locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a great start but the valet key has its drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of the crowbar to force them open. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is important to make sure that you have a spare car keys cost key in case of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car key spare or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They also can handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will have to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a spare car key cost key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, certain cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles which makes them a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost yours.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, how much is a spare car key like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You might be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your 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 specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it safe!