Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.

These features are a good start but the valet key comes with flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use a bar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on normal replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this issue.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't have transponders and don't require encoding. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them sturdier and robust. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.

Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.

Contact us 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. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

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 confirm that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.

If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them can make your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, lost transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can start.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car is 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 soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be paired with your original key.

A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to an auto dealer.

A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles which makes them the best choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional metal car keys. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.

Certain cars also come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button how much for spare car key like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient times. You might be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements on the spot.

If your vehicle has remote keys, they has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and experience to design an extra car key that can last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!