Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine which can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle be driven, but they cannot unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle when the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. The valet key acts as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of locks from earlier times. They can still unlock the driver's door, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also have features that enhance the security of the valet key like a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
While these features are a step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use the bar to force them open. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some instances the valet key may not work as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to make sure that you have a spare key in the event of this problem.
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 replace your car key, it is beneficial to have the year and model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are simple for locksmiths to make. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are usually made of nickel or brass, making them stronger and more robust. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the trouble of having to re-key it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You can leave it with a friend or family member you can trust to drive your car if you ever get locked out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also look online to see what kind of keys they can make. Certain locksmiths might not be able make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You will have to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys contain electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code in the computer system of your vehicle. If the correct code is matched, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). They are the best choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it is essential to have a spare key made as quickly as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive can replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be paired up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles, so they are the best choice if you need a spare or lost your keys.
It's important to keep your spare car key in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
Modern cars need a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. Key fobs look more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your car remotely.
Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.
Car keys can stop working at the most inconvenient times. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or heading back home after a long day only to realize you forgot the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements on the spot.
If your car has a remote key, it will have an embedded chip that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.
You'll require bringing your current keys to get it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key/fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.
Visit car key cutting if you require a spare car keys or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the tools and experience to make a spare key that will last for a lifetime. Keep it safe!