10 Unexpected Car Spare Key Tips

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys spare key while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the places where you tend to leave your keys before heading out.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of older lock keys. They can still unlock the driver's door, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles include security features, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine has been shut off.

While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and can make them open using a crowbar. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might cease to function suddenly, and the owner may need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is beneficial to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you go in to request the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are simple for locksmiths to create. They don't have a transponder, and so they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can also create key fobs for push button start cars.

It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for high-security locks, which is why you'll have to visit an locksmith in those instances.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new key for you. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable price. They'll be able duplicate your key from the beginning or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. You'll have to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. This microchip transmits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, some vehicles won't start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or duplicated.

If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Many automotive locksmiths are able to replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting a dealership.

A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles which makes them a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost key.

It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent place, try to keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secure compartment in your car.

Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. The key fob appears like a smartphone than a car key spare key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car by pressing a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a small space.

Car keys may malfunction at the most uncomfortable times. You could be at a gas station, on your way to buy some groceries or just returning home from an exhausting day. put your keys down for a second and then realize that you didn't bring a spare car keys cost key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your vehicle has remote keys, they will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick up your car keys.

You'll need to bring your current keys to be able to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We have the expertise and tools to create a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!