Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key 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, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a regular replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle 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' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can open the driver's side door but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.

While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than the normal replacement key fobs.

In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get a spare car key made your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and model of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain a transponder and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them stronger and more robust. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh use.

A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of changing the key. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to find. You could even leave it with a family member who you are confident to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.

Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Some might not be able to make keys for high-security locks, so you will need to find an locksmith in those instances.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can create you a new key, they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.

If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year, make, and model of your car to do that, spare so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car will get stolen or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. It can also be quicker than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you need to replace your spare or lost it.

It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it, and it will also make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key maker key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need keys in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Car keys may stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at the station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day only to realize you forgot the spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to do through your routine before picking keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key made to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to create keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!