Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car 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 which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However they can also be used by a private party to gain access to the car Spare key in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car key spare. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of key locks from the past and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases valet keys may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this issue.

If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them stronger and more robust. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.

Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for push button start cars.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to obtain a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.

If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's system. You'll have to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

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

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are the preferred option for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be paired with your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost it.

It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than a car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

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

Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible time. You may be at a gas station, heading to get groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key we'll need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you are having trouble with your car key, or if you're just looking to have a spare key created to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that will last a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!