Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They are able to unlock the driver's door, but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without its weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the use of a bar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this issue.
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 beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to request a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and robust. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car if you get locked out.
Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may 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'll need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the car's computer system. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms and allows the engine to start.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your car towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars, so they are a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You could be at a petrol station, en route to get groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and create new keys immediately.
If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking up the car keys.
You will require bringing your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're looking to get a spare key created to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to make a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!