Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key while shopping, or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to heading out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.

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 a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement 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. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for Car Spare Keys people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.

Modern valet keys preserve the original function of older lock keys. They can unlock the driver's door, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is turned off.

While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the use of a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to make sure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this issue.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and make of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them sturdier and durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and Car Spare Keys national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find an outlet near you by going to their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). They are therefore the best option if you wish to reduce the chances of your car key spares being stolen or copied.

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

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.

It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button how much is a spare car key like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking space.

Car keys may not work at the most inconvenient moments. You may be at the gas station, on the way to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and make new keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.

You will have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our stores. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.

If you're having issues with your car keys, or you're looking to have a spare key created to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!