Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys prior to heading out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. However they can also be employed by private parties to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys retain the original function of the older locks, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been shut off.

These features are a great starting point but the valet key comes with flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use the crowbar to force them open. Additionally, near some valet keys have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.

In some cases, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key might stop working abruptly, and the owner may need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to make sure that you have a working spare key in the event of this issue.

If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their simple edges. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out of car no spare key out.

Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.

Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

If you have an electronic key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.

If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or give you a blank, programmable key. You'll need to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost of spare car key a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towed after theft. It can also be quicker than going to an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many types of automobiles and makes and are an excellent choice if you require replacement of your spare or lost key.

It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a tight parking spot.

Car keys can sometimes not work at the most difficult moments. You might be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you forgot the spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new key replacements on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily 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/fob, we will require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to make an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it safe!