Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly 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 prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However, they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.

The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of the older 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 include security features like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, car spare keys and are able to use a crowbar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner could require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this issue.

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

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They do not come with a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and robust. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with a friend or family member whom you can trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also make key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To do this, they will need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.

If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. You'll be required to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes and are an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare key or lose key.

It's important to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.

Some cars even come with 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 tight space.

Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible time. You may be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or perhaps driving home after a long day when you put your keys down for an instant only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick the keys to your car.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!