Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn’t matter if dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of Car spare Key key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn’t able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of a customer. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.

The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original function of older lock keys. They can still unlock the driver’s door but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end contain features that increase the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key isn’t without its weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to force them open with the help of a Crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations, the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it’s been dropped or damaged. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this happening.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need 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 get an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don’t come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them more robust and durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.

A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can give it to someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.

Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the types of keys that they can create. Some may not be able to create keys for high-security locks, therefore you’ll need to visit a locksmith in those cases.

If you have an electronic key, you’ll need to obtain an alternative from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.

If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car’s system. You will need to know the year and make of your car to be able to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car’s computer system. If the correct code is matched, the car’s immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.

Transponder keys aren’t only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. In fact, certain cars won’t start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). As such, they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your car removed after a the theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys safe and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don’t risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you’re worried about putting your spare keys near me key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even have the option of “summoning” your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla’s summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking space.

Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You may be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day only to realize you’ve lost the spare key. This can be frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and make new keys right on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it has 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 key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete through your routine before picking keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will need spare car key to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your particular car.

If you’re having difficulty with your car key spare key, or you’re looking to have a spare key made for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We’ll have the tools and know-how to get spare key for car to create an extra car key that will last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!