Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for Car Spare Keys cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery fails to function.

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

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is turned off.

These features are a great starting point but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use a bar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in case of this happening.

If you are in need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's important to know the year and make of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them sturdier and durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can even leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you need to get locked out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services for affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To do this, they will need evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and affordably. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code stored in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate the car key. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are therefore the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being stolen or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a spare key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as your original key.

A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting a dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you require replacement of the spare key or have lost key.

It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Certain cars also come with the option cost of spare car key "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to squeeze into a tight parking space.

Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at a gas station, heading to buy some groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key, it will have a small chip in it that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to feel secure. We have the equipment and expertise to make an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!