15 Unexpected Facts About Car Spare Key That You Never Known

Types of car spare keys (Longisland.com)

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent by making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of older key locks, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been turned off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of an bar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.

In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner could require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in to get an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

Having a spare key maker near me key can keep you from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make a spare car key it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you are confident to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

Call ahead before going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

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

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate the original key or able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's key system. You will need to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle is stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair your key fob or create keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function as your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes, so they're an ideal choice if require a replacement for your spare key for my car key or lose it.

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

Remote Keys

Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a congested parking space.

Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key it has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.

If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're interested in getting a spare key made for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it secure!