Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines that can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a car spare key cost if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a good starting point but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the help of a crowbar. Some valet keys also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

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

If you are in need 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 replace your car key, it's important to know the year and make of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't come with a transponder and therefore do not require encryption. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you ever get locked out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is usually found in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.

It is best to call ahead before heading to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can make you a new key they will need how to get spare car key verify that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.

If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to make you a spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost for spare car key. They can duplicate your key or provide you with a blank, programmable key. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information handy if you are 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 that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches with the key code stored in the car's computer system. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms so that the engine can start.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your car towed after theft. Additionally, 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 vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or lost your keys.

It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare van keys key in a prominent area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You could be at a petrol station, on your way to buy some groceries or just returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.

You will require bringing your current key with you in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you are having trouble with your car key, or you're looking to have a spare key made to ensure your safety visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!