Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before leaving.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original function of older lock keys. They are able to unlock the driver's door, but not the console or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key is not without flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of the bar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations valet keys may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly, and the owner may require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this problem.

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 repair your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They don't contain a transponder and therefore do not require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.

Having a spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself locked out of car no spare key.

Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars with push buttons.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Some might not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to visit an locksmith in those instances.

If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. They must make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. To verify this, they will need evidence of ownership like the registration or title.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost for spare car key that is reasonable. They will be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you'll want to have that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.

In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from 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 hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

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

Car keys may not work at the most difficult moments. You might be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you forgot the spare key for car cost key. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking keys.

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

If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're looking to have a spare key created to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!