7 Helpful Tips To Make The Best Use Of Your Car Spare Key

Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. spare car keys serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of older lock keys. They are able to open the driver's side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been turned off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the use of a bar. Certain keys for valet also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have an extra.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh use.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate a store near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both can make your spare key quickly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's key system. You'll need to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get an extra key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it is essential to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst time. You could be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for a second and then realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking keys.
You'll require bringing your current key with you to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key created for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!