Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

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

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not 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 in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The primary reason to use valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key acts as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be useful for people who leave valuables in the boot or glovebox of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys retain the original function of older key locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key spare fobs, and can open them with the use of a bar. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on regular replacement key fobs.

In some cases, a valet key will not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner may have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have a spare.

If you're 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 beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they how do i get a spare car key not require encryption. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate a store near you by visiting their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.

Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to see the types of keys that they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.

If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need spare car key the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll want to have that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. When the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the best choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your Car Spare Key transponder chip or if they're stolen it's important to have a backup key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can swap your key fob or create an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a the theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.

A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore an excellent choice if you require a replacement or lost your keys.

It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking space.

Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You could be at the gas station, on the way to get groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. This can be a nightmare! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your vehicle has an electronic remote key, it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder key while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do errands before picking up the keys.

You will need to bring your current key with you to be able to have it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.

If you're having difficulty with your car key, or if you're looking to get an extra key to ensure your safety, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make a spare car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!