Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys before going out.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason to use a valet key is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of key locks from the past and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

These features are a great beginning but the valet key comes with shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use an crowbar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.

If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't come with transponders and do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of 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 recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also search online to determine what kind 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 issue you a new key, they will need spare car key to verify that you have the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.

If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make you a spare key for cars key swiftly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's key system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare car key cut key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can begin.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). They are the best choice if you want to reduce the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same function as your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.

In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other components in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or lost yours.

It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

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

Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst possible time. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving home after a busy day when you realize that you've lost your spare key. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new keys immediately.

If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.

If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting a spare key created to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and know-how to make a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!