Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. 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 leaving.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.

The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys retain the original function of older lock keys. They are able to open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.

These features are a good starting point, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the use of a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have an extra.

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

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.

Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.

Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit an locksmith in those instances.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new key for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to create you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an low-level signal. This signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are non-transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car keys lost no spare could be stolen or duplicated.

If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob, or make 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 however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a the theft. It can also be quicker than going to a dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles and are an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare or lost key.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

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

Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You could be at the gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and create new key replacements immediately.

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

Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. 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!