15 Interesting Facts About Car Spare Key That You Never Knew

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back 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 equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and additional information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of older key locks and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is switched off.

These features are a great start however, the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a bar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on regular replacement key fobs.

In some instances valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function suddenly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.

A spare key can make it easier for 99811760 you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs for cars that have a push button start.

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

You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can begin.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or 99811760 duplicated.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement made as soon as possible. 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 be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all kinds and models of automobiles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and 99811760 it will also make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

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

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you have to get into a congested parking spot.

Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that must be programmed. 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 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.

You will need to bring your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to make keys that last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it secure!