Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before going out.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door but not the console or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine turning off.

These features are a great beginning however, the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can force them open with a crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function suddenly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.

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 helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in to request an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a family member who you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.

Contact us prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able of making keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to find a locksmith in these cases.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make you a new key they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.

If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, Make Spare Car Key programmable key. You'll be required to know the year and make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car spare key key. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.

If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob or create a blank switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a the theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to 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 parts of your vehicle. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key or lose key.

It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking spot.

Car keys can stop working at the most inconvenient times. You may be at a petrol station, en route to pick up some groceries or just returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be a huge hassle! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements right on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.

You'll need to bring your current key to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, make spare car key, and MODEL.

If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're just looking to get an extra key spare for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it secure!