Five Car Spare Key Lessons From Professionals
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas you like 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. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The main reason for having a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of the older locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use the Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. G28CarKeys may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this happening.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to get the replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you are locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for locks with high security, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll require proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able duplicate your key from the beginning or in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's security system. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). They are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also 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 aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You could be at a gas station, heading to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!