5 Car Spare Key Lessons From The Pros

From Shiapedia

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key serves as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car Key Cutting service. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older key locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the use of a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not function as intended particularly if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't have transponders and do not require encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.

A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also create key fobs for cars with push button start.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. You will have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip 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 an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality like the original key.

A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your car spare key cost towed and recovered after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.

In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare key or lose it.

It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a congested parking space.

Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at the station, on the way to get groceries, or driving home from a busy day, only to discover that you've lost the spare car key maker key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new keys right on the spot.

If your vehicle 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 the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.

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

If you're having issues with your car key or you're looking to get an extra key to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!