Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.

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

Valet keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. However they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.

The main reason for having valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for spare Car keys Near me joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of key locks from the past and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on normal 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 cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you go in for an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them sturdier and robust. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You could even leave it with a friend or family member whom you can trust to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks therefore you'll need to find a locksmith in these cases.

If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They will be able to duplicate the original key or capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key car key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can begin.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. Some cars will not start when you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car will get stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or design an uncut switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually less expensive than having your car towed after theft. It's also quicker than going to a dealership.

In addition to re-making the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.

It is essential to store your spare car keys cut car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you have to get into a tight parking space.

Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, en route to get groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

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

Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.

If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're just looking to have a spare key made to ensure your safety, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!