Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra key and look over the places where you tend to leave your keys before heading out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are usually 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 a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The main reason to use valets how much is a spare car key to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on joy rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of the older locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.

These features are a great beginning however, the valet key has its shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using a bar. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this happening.

If you're in need of a new 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 and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't contain a transponder and therefore don't require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.

Having a spare keys for cars key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of having to re-key it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can also make key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is recommended to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for locks with high security.

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

If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key for cars key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded 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 matches with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can begin.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or copied.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. It's also quicker than going to the dealership.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you require a replacement or lost yours.

It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars even have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a congested parking spot.

Car keys can malfunction at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for one second only to realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder Car spare Key key while you are waiting. It 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 have it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!