Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession 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 car keys and fobs. Visit their website for current prices and additional information.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are less expensive than a regular replacement car key. They are typically used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. 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 fails.
The primary reason for using a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet keys can act as a deterrent by making it difficult for thieves to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of the older locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.
While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a Crowbar to open them. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is essential to have a spare.
If you're in the need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They do not come with a transponder, and so they don't require encoding. They are usually made of brass or nickel, making them sturdier and robust. They also can withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can help you avoid from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event that you lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to quickly duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate a store near you by going to their website. spare key replacement of them can also make key fobs for push button start cars.
It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to see the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some might not be able to create keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
If you have a smart key, you'll need to purchase a replacement from the dealer. They'll need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to make a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key swiftly and cost-effectively. They'll be able duplicate the original key, or they will be in a position to give you an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. car spare key maker is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key's code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. Some cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are non-transponder). These keys are the best option if are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.
If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
A transponder key replacement may be an expensive project, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. It's also quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to being able to repair or replace your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes which makes them an excellent choice if you need to replace your spare or lost it.
It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as help you locate your car when 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 secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful for those who need to get into a congested parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You might be at a gas station, en route to get groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for an instant only to realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements immediately.
If your vehicle is equipped with an electronic remote key, it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. auto key spares can do this while you wait, usually in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the equipment and expertise to create keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it secure!