Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, the loss of keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before going out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The main reason for having a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can open the door to the driver's side but not the console or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.

These features are a great starting point but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than the normal replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key might not function as intended, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to make sure that you have a working spare key in case of this happening.

If you're 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. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are typically made from nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of re-keying it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car if you get locked out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in those cases.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make 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 your registration or title.

If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms so that the engine can start.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key spare keys. In fact, some cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.

If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.

A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or have lost yours.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need keys in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.

Car keys can stop working at the most difficult moments. You might be at a gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. This can be frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the necessary equipment to duplicate your transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking 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 vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or want to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!