Types of car spare keys (click this site)

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joyrides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of older key locks and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine is switched off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction however, the valet key is not without its shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the crowbar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those found on standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a spare key in the event 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. It is a good idea to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you go in to request an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have transponders and don't require encoders. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them sturdier and robust. They also can handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.

If you have a smart key, you will need to get a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you have the vehicle. They will need spare car key proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to verify that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They will be able to duplicate your original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's security system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you will want to have that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key spare made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key code stored in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.

If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen it's important to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can repair the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than paying to have 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 car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require a replacement for your spare key maker near me key or lose key.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to the traditional car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your car remotely.

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

Sometimes car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You may be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new key replacements immediately.

If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip 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 key while you are waiting. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete errands before picking keys.

Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We'll have the tools and know-how much are spare car keys to design an extra car key that can last for a lifetime. Make sure you keep it somewhere safe!