Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to going out.

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

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of the customer. They can also be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason how much for spare car key having a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet key can act as a deterrent to make it difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started using the key unless the engine has been turned off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a Crowbar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on normal replacement key fobs.

In certain situations valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. It is important to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and make of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore are more durable. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can even leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can find stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.

Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit an locksmith in those instances.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They must verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. You will have to know the year and make and model of your vehicle to get a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or how to get spare car keys start the vehicle. The microchip sends out the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains the serial number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars will not start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). They are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car will get stolen or duplicated.

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

Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your car removed after a theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of kinds of models and makes of vehicles and are a great option if you require a replacement for your spare key or lose key.

It's important to keep your spare key for my car car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to 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 inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst time. You might be at the gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or returning home after a busy day only to realize you forgot your spare key. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys right on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.

You'll require bringing your current key to get it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!