Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, and sometimes keys for cars 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 they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a good beginning but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases valet keys may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to contact a professional 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 car or have lost keys to car no spare your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in for the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't have a transponder, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if you need to get locked out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.

Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.

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

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's security system. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will want to have that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal 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. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles and are a great option if you require a replacement for your spare car keys cut or lost key.

It's essential to keep your spare car spare key cost keys somewhere safe and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

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 small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking space.

Car keys can stop working at the most uncomfortable times. You could be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or heading home from a busy day only to realize you've lost your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do errands before picking keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.

If you're having issues with your car key or you're looking to get a spare key made for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to design an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it safe!