Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys while grocery shopping or put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars 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 prior to heading out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The main reason for having a valet key is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for rides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the door to the driver's side, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.

These features are a great beginning however, the valet key has its drawbacks. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs, and can make them open using the help of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases valet keys may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.

If you're in need spare car key of a new 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 a spare car key of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to create. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require the use of encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and going through the hassle of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you need to get locked out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. 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 shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.

You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need proof cost of spare car key ownership like the registration or title to verify that.

If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. You'll need to know the year and make of your car to be able to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start 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. The signal is an identification number that matches the key spare code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to begin.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it how much are spare car keys harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). This is why they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.

If you lose your car key Programming Cost transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a spare key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths 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 an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.

A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need a spare or have lost your keys.

It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a 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 car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car with a single button press, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day only to realize you've forgotten your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! 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 that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking keys.

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

If you're having issues with your car key, or you're looking to have an extra key to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it safe!