5 Car Spare Key Projects That Work For Any Budget
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to take 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 lock keys from the past. They are able to open the driver's side door, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without weaknesses. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and robust. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can also create 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 determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will need to have this information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice 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's important to have a backup key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to 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 make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles, so they are an excellent choice if you need a new spare or lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require keys in addition to the traditional car key. get spare car key made near me look more like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You could be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car has remote keys, they has a chip which must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to run around before you pick up the keys.
You'll require bringing your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct fob or key, 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 if you want to feel secure. We have the equipment and expertise to create an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!