Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys before heading out.

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

Valet Keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for having valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key could act as a deterrent by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys have retained the original function of key locks from the past and are able to unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.

While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those found on standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, a valet key will not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car spare keys or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are made of nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start cars using push buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some may not be able of making keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to go to an locksmith in those instances.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.

If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate the key you have or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You will need to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an unintentional signal. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code that is stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). These keys are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair your key fob or create a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars and are therefore a great choice when you require a replacement or lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars, a key fob is required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars come with the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You may be at a petrol station, en route to pick up some groceries or just returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has remote keys, they has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete errands before picking keys.

You'll have to bring your current keys to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.

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