Types of Car Spare Keys

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

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

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The main reason for using valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original function of key locks from the past and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that how much are spare car keys high-end include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.

These features are a good beginning but the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with a Crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.

In some instances, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to make sure 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 spare key (article source) or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in for a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you ever get locked out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also create key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to 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 confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new key for you. To verify this, they will need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends an unintentional signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to begin.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.

If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. It's also quicker than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles and are a great option if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.

It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking spot.

Car keys can sometimes not work at the most difficult times. You could be at a petrol station, heading to get groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key car key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to run around before you pick keys.

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

If you are having trouble with your car key or if you're just looking to have a spare key created for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!