10 Unexpected Car Spare Key Tips

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car keys during a shopping trip or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys before leaving.

Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and additional information.

Valet Keys

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

The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' vehicles on rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functions of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also include security features by limiting power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine is switched off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction, the valet key isn't without weaknesses. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the help of a crowbar. Some valet keys also have weaker locks as compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances the valet key might not function as expected in particular if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to call a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare.

If you're in need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's important to know the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They do not have a transponder, so they don't require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more durable. They also can be able to withstand rough handling and abrasive use.

A spare key will make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a friend or family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you ever lock yourself out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a device called KeyMe that allows you to quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars using push buttons.

It how much is a spare key for a car recommended to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also check online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for locks with high security.

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

If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able to create you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. They can duplicate your original key or give you a blank, programmable key. They will need the year, make, and model 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 keys key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. When the key is turned on the microchip emits a low-level signal. This signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computer. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that are non-transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being taken or copied.

If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you must get a new one created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to give you the same functionality like the original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than having your car towed and recovered following theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.

A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you require a replacement or have lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public area, you can keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than a car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your car by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Car keys may not work at the most inconvenient times. You might be at a gas station, on your route to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day when you realize that you've forgotten your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements immediately.

If your car has a remote key, it's likely to have a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key spare cost key while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to complete around before you pick keys.

You will have to bring your current keys to get it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!