What Car Spare Key Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?

Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys when you were grocery shopping or set it down to grab your coffee, the loss of keys to cars can happen. Keep a  spare car key  and check places where you often leave your keys.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a type of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason to use valet keys is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on joy rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can also be useful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys retain the original function of lock keys from the past. They are able to open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars include security features like a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without turning the engine off.

While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key isn't without weaknesses. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use a Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases valet keys may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key might stop working suddenly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.

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 when you come in for the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have simple edges. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are typically made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can make key fobs to cars that have a push button start.

Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for high security locks.

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

If you have a conventional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a 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 in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to match the car's key system. You will have to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get an extra key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key's code in the car's computer system. When the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to start.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will not start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). They are therefore the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.

If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key to give you the same functionality as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towing after a the theft. Additionally, it can be less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.

A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if need to replace the spare key or have lost key.

It's essential to leave your spare car keys in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from 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 place, try to keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob can be used 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 by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Car keys may stop working at the most uncomfortable moments. You may be at the gas station, on the way to pick up groceries, or heading home from a busy day when you realize that you've lost the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and make new keys right on the spot.

If your vehicle is equipped with a remote key it has a chip which needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run around before you pick keys.

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

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need 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 the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!