Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.

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

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or the 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 vehicle of a customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for having valet keys is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.

Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of older lock keys. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key, such as 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 is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using the help of a Crowbar. Furthermore, some keys for remote valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases, the valet key may not function as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to call a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to make sure that you have a valid spare key in case of this problem.

If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you visit to request the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.

A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of changing the key. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.

It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks so you will need to find a locksmith in these cases.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.

If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will need to know the year and make of your car to be able to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that 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. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it 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 keys that aren't transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a backup key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as the original key.

A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.

In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all makes and models of cars and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or lost yours.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare car keys cut key in a visible location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a tiny 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 an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most inconvenient times. You might be at the station, or on your way to get groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you've lost the spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and create new keys on the spot.

If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must 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, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands and then pick up the car keys.

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

If you are having trouble with your car key, or you're interested in getting a spare key made for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!