7 Tips To Make The Most Of Your Car Spare Key

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and additional information.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still open the driver's side door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key is not without weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the help of a crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.

In certain situations valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.

If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to get the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require the use of encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.

Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.

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'll be able duplicate the original key, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's key system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). They are therefore the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.

If  spare car key replacement 've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually less expensive than having your car removed after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting a dealership.

In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking space.

Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst time. You could be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you forgot your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and provide new keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete around before you pick keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!