Types of car key spares Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to going out.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The primary reason to use valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They can still open the driver's side door, but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been switched off.

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

In certain situations valet keys may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.

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

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They do not have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you are locked out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.

It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find a locksmith in those cases.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create your spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. You'll need to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have 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 a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as your original key.

A transponder key replacement may be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles and are therefore the best choice if you require a replacement or have lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

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

Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, spare keys similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes, car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a petrol station, heading to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key, it has an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!