10 Methods To Build Your Car Spare Key Empire
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping or if you put it down 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 self-service key duplication equipment that can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, visit their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a less expensive alternative to a standard replacement key. They are usually used by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to cars if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on joy rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of older lock keys. They are able to open the door to the driver's side however, they cannot open the trunk or console lock. Some luxury vehicles of high-end also include features that improve the security of the valet keys like a limited power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a good starting point, but the valet key comes with drawbacks. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have weaker locks than the normal replacement key fobs.
In some cases, a valet key will not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may stop working suddenly and the owner will need to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a spare key in the event of this problem.
If you're in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. spare key replacement is helpful to have the YEAR and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle in hand when you visit for an replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also handle rough handling and use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep it separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can give it to someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can find stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
It is best to call ahead before heading to a store offering these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they can make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, which is why you'll have to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. They'll need to confirm that you are the owner of the vehicle before they can make a new one for you. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They'll be able duplicate the original key, or they will be able to provide you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's key system. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic 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 activated by the microchip, it sends an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system of the vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, they also make it more difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, certain cars won't start when the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are the preferred option when you want to decrease the possibility that your car is stolen or copied.
If you have lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should get a spare created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can swap your key fob, or make a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towing after a the theft. It's also less time-consuming than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or have lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car if you are in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys

In most modern cars keys are needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes car keys fail to function at the worst time. You may be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or driving home from a busy day, only to discover that you've lost your spare key. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it has tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
If you are having trouble with your car key or you're looking to get a spare key created for peace of mind go to your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design keys that last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it safe!