Types of car spare keys (you could look here)

It doesn’t matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it down while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare car key cutting near me key in your bag and be sure to check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to going out.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer’s vehicle. However they can also be employed by a private party to gain access to the car in the event that the remote key fob battery is not working.

The primary reason to employ a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers’ cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They can still open the door to the driver’s side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.

These features are a great beginning however, the valet key has its shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use an bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it’s been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly, and the owner may require a locksmith to have it replaced. It is essential to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this problem.

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

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They don’t contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore 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 hassle of having to re-key it. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your car in the event that you are locked out.

Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.

It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, therefore you’ll need to find a locksmith in those cases.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key, they’ll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle. To verify this, they’ll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.

If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your spare key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you’ll need to have this information on hand if you’re 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 different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. This microchip transmits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in your vehicle’s computer system. If the correct code is matched, the car’s immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or duplicated.

If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to provide the same function like the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car keys lost no spare towed after the theft. It can also be quicker than visiting a dealership.

In addition to re-making your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes and are an ideal choice if need to replace your spare or lost key.

It’s important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will help you locate your car in case you’re in a rush. 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

The majority of modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. You can also start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to “summon” your car by pressing a single button similar to Tesla’s summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a tight space.

Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You could be at a petrol station, en route to buy some groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn’t carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct fob or key, we will need to know your vehicle’s year, make a spare car key, and MODEL.

If you’re having difficulty with your car key or if you’re just looking to get a spare keys cut key created to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to design a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!