Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

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

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys retain the original function of lock keys from the past. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.

These features are a great beginning but the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the help of a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than the standard replacement key fobs.

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

If you are in 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 beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.

A spare key for cars key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find a store near you by visiting their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for locks with high security.

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

If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key quickly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key for car cost key made.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock 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 the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of the car how much is a spare car key disarmed when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars will not start when you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). This is why they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.

If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions like the original key.

A transponder key replacement may be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. It's also quicker than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can replace your lost keys to car no spare or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key or lose it.

It's important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car key spares when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst time. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your vehicle is equipped with remote keys, they will have a chip that requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.

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

If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're just looking to have a spare key made to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to design keys that last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!