Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before leaving.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, visit their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.

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

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of the older locks, and they can still unlock a door for drivers, but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

These features are a good start however, the valet key comes with flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and g28Carkeys they can use a Crowbar to open them. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.

In some instances the valet key might not function as intended particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner might need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have a spare.

If you're in the need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in to get a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles using push buttons.

Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they can create. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for locks with high security.

If you have a smart key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.

If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will need the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that are non-transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your car towing after a theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to an auto dealer.

In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all kinds and models of automobiles, so they are the best choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you are worried about leaving your Spare Car Keys Near Me car keys visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to 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 useful if you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes, keys to cars aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You may be at the gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.

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

If you're having issues with your car key or if you're looking to get a spare key created for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!