Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy keys for cars and fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys are a form of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. However, they can also be used by a private party to get into the car in the event that the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.
The main reason to use valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who keep valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys retain the original function of the older locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also include features that improve the security of the valet key, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key has its drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and are able to use a Crowbar to open them. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases, the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key it is crucial to have a spare car keys made.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it is important to know the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They do not come with an electronic transponder, which means they do not require encoding. They are made from nickel or brass and are therefore more durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it in a separate place from your keychain so that it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car if you need to lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national chains of home improvement provide key duplication services at affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you'll have to obtain a replacement from the dealership. Before they can make you a new key, they will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. They will need proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to make an exchange key quickly and at a cost of spare car key that is reasonable. They'll be able duplicate the original key or able to provide you with a blank key that could be programmed to work with your car's system. You'll need to know the year and make of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars will not start if you use the wrong key (except for keys that aren't transponder). These keys are the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being taken or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chips keys or if they're stolen, it is essential to have a spare key made as soon as possible. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be costly however, they are typically less expensive than having your car towed after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
In addition to re-making your broken or lost keys an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other parts of your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles which makes them a great option if you require replacement of your spare or lost it.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible location, try keeping it hidden under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment of your vehicle.
(Image: https://g28carkeys.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/286708_Volvo_Iron_Mark.jpg)Remote Keys
In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car keys spare by pressing the button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also offer the option of “summoning” your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.
Car keys can sometimes not work at the most difficult moments. You could be at a gas station, or on your way to get groceries, or heading home after a busy day only to realize you've forgotten the spare key. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements immediately.
If your car has a remote key it will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.
You'll need to bring your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and expertise to create a spare car key that can last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it safe!