Five Car Spare Key Lessons Learned From Professionals

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession 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 duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys maintain the original function of older lock keys. They are able to open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the use of a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances valet keys may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and Car Keys Lost No Spare the owner will have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to make sure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.

If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is helpful if you have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't contain transponders and do not require encoders. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.

A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.

It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They'll need to confirm 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 do that.

If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost of spare car key. They'll be able duplicate your original key, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. You'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle to get a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair your key fob or create a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. It's also quicker than visiting a dealership.

A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You might be at a gas station, on the way to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your vehicle is equipped with a 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 keys. We can duplicate your transponder Car Keys Lost No Spare key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete around before you pick keys.

You'll require bringing your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the expertise and tools to create keys that last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!