Car Spare Key 101: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you've lost your key when you were grocery shopping or set it down to go get a spare car key made your coffee, the loss of car keys happens. Keep a spare car key and look for places where you regularly leave your keys.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are typically utilized by valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain access to the car in case the owner's remote key fob battery is not working.

The main reason to use valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of older lock keys. They can unlock the driver's door however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This stops the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is shut off.

While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use an crowbar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.

In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact an expert locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.

If you are in need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is beneficial to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys due to their a simple edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh usage.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

The majority of hardware stores and national chains of home improvement offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically available at these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near your location by checking their website. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also go to their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Some might not be able to make keys for high-security locks, so you will need to go to a locksmith in these cases.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you have one. They will need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can create a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.

If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts store or locksmith. Both will be able to 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. You'll be required to know the year, make and model of your vehicle in order to have a replacement key.

Transponder Keys

Contrary to traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal is a serial number which matches the key code stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.

Transponder keys aren't only more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate the car key. Some cars won't start if you use a key that is not correct (except for those that aren't transponder). This is why they are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car will get stolen or copied.

If you've lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or design an empty switchblade key that can be paired with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. Additionally, it could be faster than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also fix your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for all kinds and models of automobiles, so they are an excellent choice if you need a spare car key cut or have lost your keys.

It's important to keep your spare car key price car keys in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally misplacing or losing it as well as aid in finding your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, keep it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of the button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You might be at a gas station, on the way to get a spare car key made groceries, or driving home from a busy day, only to discover that you forgot the spare van keys key. It can be quite frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and make new keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have a small chip in it that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. There is plenty of time to complete around before you pick up the keys.

You'll need to bring your current key with you in order to have it duplicated at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you're having difficulty with your car key or you're interested in getting a spare key created for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the expertise and tools to make an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!