Car Spare Key: Myths And Facts Behind Car Spare Key

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. However, they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys preserve the original function of locks from earlier times. They can open the door to the driver's side, but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a good beginning however, the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare car keys made.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you visit to get a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't have transponders and don't require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of changing the key. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also make key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is best to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able to make keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in those cases.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an unintentional signal. 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.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when 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 vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive can replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car key remote replacement towed after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.

Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible time. You may be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you didn't carry a spare car key maker key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick the keys to your car.

You'll have to bring your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're interested in getting a spare key for cars key made for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to make an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!