Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys prior to leaving.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, visit their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are used 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 employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.

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

Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or 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 an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without its flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of an crowbar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.

In some instances the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly, and the owner may need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.

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

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). This is why they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.

If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.

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

A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars, so they are the best choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.

It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.

Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking space.

Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most inconvenient moments. You may be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or driving home after a busy day only to realize you forgot the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key it will have a chip that requires programming. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car spare keys key or if you want to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to design keys that last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!