Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your cup of coffee, losing car key locksmith keys happens. Be sure to keep a spare car keys near me key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to going out.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are most often used by hotel 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 entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

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

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can unlock the driver's door but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been turned off.

These features are a great start, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with the use of a bar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than those on regular replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key might stop working abruptly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.

If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you go in for the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have a simple edge design. They don't come with transponders and do not require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They can also handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can keep you from losing your car and having to go through the trouble of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member whom you trust to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. You can find a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them make key fobs to push button start cars.

It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also search online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.

If you have an electronic key, you will need to get an alternative from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To verify this, they will need evidence of your ownership, such as the registration or title.

If you own a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost of spare car key. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's security system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the likelihood that your car is stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive however, they are typically cheaper than having your car removed after a the theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.

In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions as well as other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles, so they are an excellent choice if you require a replacement or lost your keys.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a hidden 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. Key fobs are tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real 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.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a small space.

Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at a gas station, heading to get groceries, or simply returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins which is enough time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.

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

If you're having difficulty with your car key or you're looking to get a spare key maker near me key made for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to create an extra car key that can last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!