Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it back while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery fails.

The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of lock keys from the past. They can still unlock the driver's door but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles come with security features by limiting power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is shut off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use the bar to force them open. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.

In some cases, the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is important to make sure that you have a valid spare key in the event of this happening.

If you are in need of a new car key, or have lost your Attendant Key, visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you come in to get a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have an easy edge design. They do not have an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.

A spare van keys key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can leave it with a family member whom you trust to drive your car in the event that you need spare car key to get locked out.

Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can also make key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also search online to find out what kind of keys they are able to make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare van keys key quickly and affordably. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. You'll have to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends a low-level signal. The signal is an identification number that matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). They are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle is stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if you lose them, it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a the theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore an excellent choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.

It is essential to store your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also help you locate your car in case you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys cost car keys visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

Most 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 an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.

Car keys can sometimes malfunction at the most uncomfortable moments. You might be at the station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new key replacements on the spot.

If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete errands before picking up the keys.

You'll need to bring your current keys in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you're having difficulty with your car keys, or if you're interested in getting a spare key created for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to design an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!