Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key while grocery shopping or put it down to grab your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. They can be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or boot of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys have retained the original functionality of the older locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine has been shut off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use a bar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases valet keys may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner could require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to make sure that you have a spare keys near me key in case of this issue.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require a new key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate stores near you by visiting their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can issue you a new key they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key car key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip sends out an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. If the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.

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 repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same function as your original key.

A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.

A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles and are therefore the best choice if you need a new spare or lost your keys.

It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key cutting near me key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a small space.

Car keys may stop working at the most difficult moments. You may be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run through your routine before picking 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 particular car.

If you're having issues with your car key or if you're looking to have an extra key to keep you safe, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create keys that last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!