Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of the older locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles include security features by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

These features are a good starting point however, the valet key has its drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the crowbar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.

If you're in need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to create. They do not have a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.

A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.

It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some may not be able to make keys for Car Spare Key high-security locks so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.

You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key swiftly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate the original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's system. You'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best option if you want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it's important to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.

A transponder key replacement may be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your car towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost key.

It is essential to store your spare car keys in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, keep 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. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.

Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your Car Spare Key is equipped with remote keys, they has a chip that requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your particular car.

If you are having trouble with your car key, or you're looking to get an extra key to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to create a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!