Types of Car Spare Keys
If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to go get your coffee, missing car keys happens. Keep an extra 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 which can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but does not unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics at repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent to make it more difficult to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also useful for those who often leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.
Modern valet keys preserve the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They can open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end have features that enhance the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
While these features are an important step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without shortcomings. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and can open them with a bar. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not work as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to repair it. It is important to ensure that you have a valid spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoders. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They are also able to be able to withstand rough handling and usage.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member whom you can trust to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them can also create key fobs for cars that have a push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also search online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some might not be able of making keys for locks with high security, so you will need to visit a locksmith in these cases.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you will be required to keep that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys which use metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. This signal contains the serial number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. If the correct code is found the immobilizer in your car disarms and allows the engine to begin.
Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Certain cars won't start when you use a key that is not correct (except for those that are not transponder). They are the best choice for those who want to lower the possibility that your car will get stolen or duplicated.
If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare created as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to give you the same functionality as your original key.
Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your vehicle towing after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than going to a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for most makes and models of cars which makes them the best choice if you need a spare or lost yours.
It's important to keep your spare car keys in a safe place, not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of 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 leaving your spare key in a visible area, you can keep it hidden beneath the dashboard or in a secret compartment in your car.
Remote Keys
Most modern cars require keys in addition to a traditional metal car key. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using the button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option when you have to squeeze into a tight parking space.
Car keys may stop working at the most difficult moments. You might be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or returning home after a busy day, only to discover that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be a nightmare! replacing car keys without spare of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have an embedded chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the necessary equipment to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to complete around before you pick keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your particular car.
If you're having difficulty with your car key or you're looking to get an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and expertise to design an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!