Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Make sure to keep a spare car keys made key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that 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 are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However, they can also be employed by a private party to get into the car in case the owner’s remote key fob battery fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers’ cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still unlock the driver’s door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars come with security features, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key isn’t without its flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use an Crowbar to open them. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to 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 cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare keys for cars key in case of this issue.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of the vehicle you are using.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don’t require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can handle rough handling and use.

Having a spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. It is recommended to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will 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 prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.

It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for high-security locks therefore you’ll need to find a locksmith in these cases.

If you have a smart key, you’ll need to purchase an alternative from the dealership. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do this, so you’ll be required to keep that information in your possession if you’re planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is activated, this microchip sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code in the car’s computer system. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can begin.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if you lose them, it’s important to have a replacement key made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace your key fob, or make a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same function as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project However, it’s typically less expensive than having your vehicle tow and recovered after a theft. It’s also quicker than going to the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles and are therefore an excellent choice if you need a new spare or have lost your keys.

It’s important to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will aid in finding your car when you’re in a hurry. If you’re worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars also offer the option of “summoning” your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla’s summon feature. This is useful for those who need to get into a congested parking spot.

Car keys may not work at the most inconvenient times. You might be at a gas station, heading to buy some groceries, or simply returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for one second only to realize that you didn’t bring the spare key for car key with you. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements right on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key it will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.

Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know your car’s YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you’re having difficulty with your car key, or you’re interested in getting a spare key made to ensure your safety go to your local Mister Minit store today. We’ll have the tools and know-how much is a spare key for a car to make an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!