Ten Things Everybody Is Uncertain About The Word "Car Spare Key"
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and look for places where you regularly 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 and current key prices, see their website.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement car key. They are usually employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also employed by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The main reason to use a valet is to prevent theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides, and the valet key could act as a deterrent by making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functions of key locks from the past and can open a driver's door but not the lock that is on the center console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started using the key unless the engine is shut off.
While getting a spare key for my car are an important 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 are able to use a crowbar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases valet keys may not function as planned especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you require an additional key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. When you visit Mister Minit to repair your car key, it's important to know the year and make of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't have transponders and do not require encoding. They are made of brass or nickel and therefore are more durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh usage.
A spare key can help you avoid having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can even leave it with a friend or family member you are confident to drive your car if you get locked out.
The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally available in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your keys from standard to modern in a matter of minutes. You can locate an outlet near your location by checking their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to turn on cars with push buttons.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll need to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need proof of your ownership like the registration or title.
If you have a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll be required 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 make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. The microchip emits the radio signal at a low level when the key is activated. The signal contains an identification number that matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it harder to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the possibility that your car could be stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a backup key made as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your car towing after a the theft. It's also quicker than visiting an auto dealer.
In addition to being able to replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for a variety of kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore a great choice when you require a replacement or lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a public area, you can keep it hidden under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys

The majority of modern cars require the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob looks more like a smartphone rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Some cars have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great if you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient possible time. You may be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries or just driving home after an exhausting day. put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be very frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and create new key replacements immediately.
If your car has a remote key it has a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 minutes which is plenty of time to run your errands and then pick up your car keys.
You will need to bring your current key with you to get it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or you wish to have peace of mind. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Make sure it's safe!