7 Effective 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 while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.
The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They can open the driver's side door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine turning off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key might not work as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough handling and harsh use.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of having to re-key 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 that you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to obtain an alternative from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll require proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. link home will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. This microchip transmits 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 your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.
In addition to re-making the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare key or lose key.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible moment. You may be at the station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.
If your car is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run around before you pick keys.
You'll need to bring your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
If you're having issues with your car keys, or if you're just looking to get an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!