Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys 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 in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a kind of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants as well as 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 in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery fails.

The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of older key locks and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.

These features are a great start, but the valet key has its drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use a bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car spare Key or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's helpful if you have the year and Car Spare Key model of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member who you can trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find a store near you by visiting their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.

It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. To do this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as 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 make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's system. You will have to know the year and make spare car key and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than paying to have your car towed and recovered after a theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.

A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost yours.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing the button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to get into a tight parking spot.

Car keys can stop working at the most difficult times. You may be at a gas station, on your way to get groceries or just returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be extremely frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run errands before picking keys.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to feel secure. We have the expertise and tools to create keys that last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it safe!