Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Make sure to 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 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. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave 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 they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of an crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have an extra.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it's helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern 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 cars using push buttons.

It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in those cases.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they make a new one for you. To do this, they'll need proof of your ownership such as your registration or title.

If you have an old key, go to 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 key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you will be required to keep that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best option if you want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob or create a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a the theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

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

It is essential to store your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about keeping your spare car key visible, place it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car keys spare by pressing an appropriate button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to get into a congested parking spot.

Car keys may not work at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at a gas station, on your way to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for a second and then realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to be secure. We'll have the tools and experience to create an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!