Find Out What Car Spare Key Tricks The Celebs Are Using Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it down while you were getting your coffee. Keep an extra car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and more information.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically used by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.

The primary reason for using valet services is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of older key locks and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the center console or the trunk. Certain luxury cars come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.

These features are a good beginning however, the valet key has its flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use a bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have a spare.

If lost my car keys no spare in need of an additional 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, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have an easy edge design. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.

Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available at 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 stores also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.

It is recommended to make a call prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for locks with high security.

If you have a smart key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealership. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. To do this, they'll need evidence of ownership like the registration or title.

If you own a traditional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They'll be able duplicate your original key or in a position to give you a blank key that can be programmed to work with your car's security system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your car to do this, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains a serial number which 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.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car keys. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle could be stolen or duplicated.

If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle removed after a the theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting the dealership.

A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also create duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you need a spare or have lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it in the first place, and will make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car with the press of a button. You can also start your car remotely.

Some cars offer the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Car keys may stop working at the most difficult times. You may be at a petrol station, on your way to get groceries, or perhaps returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for one second only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key it has a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands before picking the keys to your car.

Bring your key to one of our stores to get it duplicated. We will require the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the expertise and tools to design a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!