7 Tips To Make The Most Of Your Car Spare Key
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and 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 equipment which 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 the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for using valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is switched off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the help of a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. cheap spare car keys is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to find an locksmith in those instances.
If you have a smart key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To do this, they will need evidence of ownership such as the 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'll be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's system. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an 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 in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes which makes them an ideal choice if require a replacement for your spare key or lose key.
It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst time. You could be at a gas station, en route to get groceries or just returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key it 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 car key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do errands before picking keys.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We have the expertise and tools to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!