Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and additional information.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on joy rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of locks from earlier times. They are able to 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 starting with the key unless the engine is switched off.

These features are a good starting point however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of the bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function suddenly and the owner might require an locksmith to get it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.

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 helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle when you go in for 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 don't require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe use.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your G28 Car Keys if you lose it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member who you can trust to 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. KeyMe is typically found 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 stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able of making keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to visit an locksmith in those instances.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. To verify this, they will need evidence of ownership like the registration or title.

If you have a traditional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's system. You will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal is a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.

In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car will get stolen or copied.

If you lose or have lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or design a blank switchblade key that can be joined with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. In addition, it can be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.

In addition to re-making the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require a replacement for the spare key or have lost key.

It is essential to store your spare car keys somewhere safe, and not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from accidentally misplacing or losing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a prominent location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. You can also start your car keys lost no spare remotely.

Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you need to squeeze into a cramped space.

Car keys can stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You could be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost your spare key. It can be quite frustrating! The majority of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to run errands before picking up the keys.

Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will require information about your vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you're having difficulty with your car key or if you're looking to get a spare key created to keep you safe go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!