Car Spare Key 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Types of Car spare van keys Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key and check places where you often leave your keys.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys allow the vehicle to be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of customers. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a car when the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The primary reason for using valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the Car Key Locksmith. Valet keys are also useful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past and are able to open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is switched off.

These features are a good beginning, but the valet key comes with shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with a bar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those found on standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances the valet key might not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could cease to function suddenly and the owner could need to contact a locksmith to have it replaced. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important 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. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoders. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them stronger and more robust. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car if 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 vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable prices. The KeyMe machine is generally available at these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new key for you. They will require evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare car key cut key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate the original key or able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's security system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. This signal contains a digital serial number that is matched with the key code in the car's computer system. If the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can start.

Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your vehicle being stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car keys lost no spare transponder chip or if they're stolen it is essential to have a replacement key made as soon as possible. Many automotive locksmiths are able to repair your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than paying to have your car towed and recovered following theft. In addition, it can be faster than visiting a dealership.

A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles, so they are a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost your keys.

It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars also offer the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst possible moment. You may be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores can repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes, which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your particular car.

If you're having difficulty with your car key or you're looking to get a spare car keys made key created for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to make an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!