7 Tips To Make The The Most Of Your 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 get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. get spare key made near me are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be used by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to prevent theft. make a spare key is not uncommon 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 take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys retain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the use of a crowbar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They don't come with transponders and don't require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and robust. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. They will need 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 will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start when you use the wrong key (except for keys that are non-transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap the key fob or design an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or lost yours.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a congested parking spot.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with remote keys, they will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.
You will have to bring your current key with you to be able to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!