Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Make sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for Car spare Key rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of older key locks and can unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.

In some instances the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's 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 essential to ensure that you have a spare keys made near me key in the event 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 replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with a family member who you can trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to verify that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare keys cut key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car will get stolen or duplicated.

If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function like the original key.

A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost key.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car spare key key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.

Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You might be at a gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home from a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your vehicle has a remote key it has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking up the car keys.

You'll have to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to feel secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!