Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost keys to car no spare your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before going out.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

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

The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys preserve the original function of lock keys from the past. They can unlock the driver's door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been turned off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn't without its weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a bar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on regular replacement key fobs.

In some instances, a valet key will not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this issue.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They do not have a transponder, so they do not require encoding. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe usage.

Having a spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find a store near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.

If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll need to have this information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can start.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. 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 most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.

A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles and are an ideal choice if require a replacement for your spare key or lose it.

It's important 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 will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Sometimes, keys to cars aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You may be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare keys for car key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it has an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car keys lost no spare. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car key copy service.

You'll need to bring your current key with you to get it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you're interested in getting a spare key made to ensure your safety, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!