10 Unexpected Car Spare Key Tips

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it back while you were getting your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before heading out.

Some supermarkets, like Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. Visit their website for the most current prices and other details.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of spare car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are a cheaper option than a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer.  make a spare key  are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for rides and the valet key could act as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original function of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door, but not the trunk or console lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction but the valet key isn't without shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use a bar to force them open. Certain keys for valet also have weaker locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to repair it. It is crucial to make sure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.

If you are in need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key Visit your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to get your car key, it is beneficial to have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't have transponders and do not require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also be able to withstand rough handling and usage.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to find. You can leave it with someone you trust to drive your vehicle in the event that you are locked out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is generally 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 also make key fobs that can be used to start cars by pushing buttons.

Call ahead before going to a shop that offers these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to make keys for locks with high security.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to prove that you are the owner of the vehicle. To do this, they will need proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.

If you have a conventional key, you can go to an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make you a replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They'll be able to duplicate your key from the beginning, or they will be in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match the car's system. They will require the year model, make, and year of your car to do that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Unlike traditional keys, which use metal contacts to open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is activated, this microchip sends a low-level signal. This signal contains a serial number which matches the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start in the event that you use a key that is not correct (except for keys that aren't transponder). This is why they are the best choice if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should have a replacement made as soon as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same function as your original key.

A transponder key replacement can be expensive, but it's often cheaper than having your vehicle towed and retrieved following theft. It can also be quicker than visiting an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for a variety of types of automobiles and makes which makes them a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost key.

It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally misplacing or losing it, and it will also aid in finding your car in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, place it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

Most modern cars require a key fob in addition to a traditional car key. A key fob is a small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars offer the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking spot.

Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst time. You might be at a gas station, heading to pick up some groceries or just returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for just a second and then realize you forgot to bring a spare key along with you. This can be frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, generally within less than 30 mins which is plenty of time to run your daily errands, and then pick up your car keys.

You will require bringing your current keys to get it copied at one of our stores. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific car.

If you're having issues with your car key, or if you're looking to get a spare key created for peace of mind visit your local Mister Minit store today. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!