Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to go get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to going out.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.

These features are a good starting point but the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the help of a bar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is essential to make sure that you have a working spare key in case of this issue.

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

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive usage.

A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.

Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate a store near you by visiting their website. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in those cases.

You'll need spare car key to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. 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 key system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

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. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you must get a new one made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob, or price make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same functions as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towed after the theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.

In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may also repair damaged ignitions as well as other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.

It's essential to leave 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 make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking space.

Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You might be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries or just returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for just an instant only to realize you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do around before you pick up the keys.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that can last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!