What Can A Weekly Car Spare Key Project Can Change Your Life
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before leaving.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.
The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been switched off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key isn't without its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the help of a crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't come with a transponder and therefore don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.
Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce 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 check their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in those cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can start.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or design an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after a theft. It can also be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars and are therefore an excellent choice if you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Car keys can not work at the most inconvenient times. You could be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or driving home from a busy day only to realize you've lost the spare key . This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do around before you pick keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your particular car.
If you're having issues with your car key or if you're just looking to get an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!