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

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.

The primary reason for using 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 take the car. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can unlock the driver's door, but not the console or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.

These features are a great starting point but the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the help of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact an locksmith to get it replaced. 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 require a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you go in for a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They do not have a transponder, and so they don't require the use of encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if 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 standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.

If you have an electronic key, you'll need to get an alternative from the dealership. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with a blank, programmable key.  cheap spare car keys  will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're 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 open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same functions as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost yours.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will stop 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 keys visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient times. You could be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving back home after a long day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your vehicle has a remote key it has 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 do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!