Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

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

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.

The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key can be used 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 boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys have retained the original function of key locks from the past and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a great beginning however, the valet key has its drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use a bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances valet keys may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have an extra.

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

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car if you ever get locked out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.

Call ahead before going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in these cases.

If you have a smart key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to verify that.

If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal is an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys lost no spare key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare car keys cut key made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require replacement of your spare key or lose key.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.

Car keys can sometimes not work at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you've lost the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.

If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need spare car key to know your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare key for cars car key or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how to design an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!