Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Some supermarkets, Car Spare Keys such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of the older locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, 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, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been turned off.

While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, the valet key may not function as intended, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare keys for cars key in the event of this problem.

If you are in need of an additional 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 and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

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 easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.

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

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of ownership like the registration or title.

If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able duplicate the original key, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's key system. You will need to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. This signal contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the best choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a replacement key made as quickly 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 like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually less expensive than having your car removed after a the theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles and are an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost it.

It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

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

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst time. You may be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to create keys that last for a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!