Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car key while shopping or if you put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to 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. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.

Valet keys

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

The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of the older locks, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those on regular replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.

If you're in the 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, [Redirect-Meta-0] MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to get a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They do not have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and robust. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh use.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car if you lock yourself locked out of car no spare key.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to find an locksmith in those instances.

If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.

If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make a spare car key you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will be required to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.

If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes and are a great option if you require a replacement for the spare key or have lost it.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require keys in addition to the traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a gas station, on your route to get groceries, or heading back home after a long day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.

If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.

You'll require bringing your current keys to get it copied at one of our stores. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.

If you're having issues with your car key or if you're just looking to have a spare key made to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!