Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

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

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent to make it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of the older locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a good beginning but the valet key comes with flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the help of a bar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.

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

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 repair your car key, it is important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.

A spare car key price key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for cars that have a push button start.

It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the kinds of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. 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 like the registration or title to do that.

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll have to know the year and make of your vehicle in order to have a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). They are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car keys spare is stolen or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality as your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting the dealership.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys 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 need to replace your spare or lost key.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.

Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a congested parking spot.

Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most inconvenient moments. You might be at the gas station, on your route to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day only to realize you forgot your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it has a small chip in it which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, Car Spare Keys which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to be secure. We have the expertise and tools to create a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!