Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of the older locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine has been shut off.

These features are a great start, but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the use of a crowbar. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to standard 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 could cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have an extra.

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

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.

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

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits a low-level signal. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best option if want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking however, Car Spare Keys it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require keys in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to bring the spare keys for cars key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.

You'll require bringing your current key with you to get it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.

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 create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!