Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joy rides and the valet keys could act as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of the older locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key for example, a limit on power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can force them open with the help of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly, and the owner may require an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this problem.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't have an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them stronger and more robust. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event you need to lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll need evidence of ownership like the registration or title.

If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your key or give you a blank, programmable key. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key's code in the car's computer system. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms and allows the engine to start.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate the car key. In fact, some cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.

If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob or create an empty switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot However, they are usually less expensive than having your car towed after theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare key or lose key.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key cost car key visible, place it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.

Some cars have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This how much is a spare car key a great option for those who need to get into a congested parking space.

Car keys can malfunction at the most difficult moments. You might be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or driving back home after a long day when you realize that you forgot your spare key. This can be a nightmare! Luckily, the 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's likely to have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.

You will have to bring your current key in order to have it copied at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you are having trouble with your car keys, or you're looking to get a spare key created to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to make a spare car key a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!