Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

The primary reason for using valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for Car Spare Keys valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys maintain the original function of locks from earlier times. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been turned off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with a crowbar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than the regular replacement key fobs.

In some instances valet keys may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.

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. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't have a transponder and therefore don't require encoders. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.

A spare key can keep you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place 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 you lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some stores make key fobs to push button start cars.

Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks so you will need to go to a locksmith in these cases.

If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of 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 go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able to duplicate the original key or in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. You'll have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can start.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as quickly as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.

In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes and are an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost key.

It's important to keep your spare key for car car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a congested parking spot.

Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst time. You may be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for one second only to realize that you didn't bring the spare key for car key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick 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 car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.

If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key made to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to design a spare car key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!