Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep an extra car key and check places where you often leave your keys.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The primary reason to employ valets is to stop 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 by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys maintain the original function of lock keys from the past. They can still open the door to the driver's side, but not the trunk or console lock. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key is not without weaknesses. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use an crowbar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on regular replacement key fobs.

In some instances, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare car keys cut.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key spares key, it's important to know the year and model of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require the use of encoding. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a friend or family member you are confident to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also make key fobs for cars with push button start.

Call ahead before 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 might not be able of making keys for high-security locks, therefore you'll need to find a locksmith in those cases.

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

If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost for spare car key. They will be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's key system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the best option if want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

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

Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your car spare keys towed and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting the dealership.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars, so they are an excellent choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.

It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid 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 leaving your spare key in a public place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.

Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst time. You could be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home from a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.

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

If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're looking to get an extra key to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it in a safe place!