10 Car Spare Key Tricks Experts Recommend

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Make sure to keep a spare key in your bag and be sure to check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to leaving.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, as well as keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a form of 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 regular replacement car key. They are most often employed by hotel valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The primary reason to employ valets is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on rides. Valet keys act as an deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's glovebox or in the boot.

Modern valet keys retain the original functionality of older key locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or trunk. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.

These features are a great starting point, but the valet key has its flaws. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of a crowbar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure 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 might cease to function suddenly and the owner might require a locksmith to have it replaced. In the event of a key malfunction it is essential to have an extra.

If you're in the need of an additional car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for a replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys have a simple design around the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They do not come with a transponder, so they do not require encryption. They are made from brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough usage and handling.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to locate. You can even leave it with a friend or family member who you trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.

The majority of national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable prices. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can find a store near your location by checking their website. Some of them can make key fobs to push button start cars.

Make sure to call ahead prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also visit their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to make keys for high security locks.

If you have an electronic key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can create you a new key, they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to do that.

If you have a conventional key you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be capable of providing you with a blank key that can be programmed to match your car's security system. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is turned on, this microchip sends an low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys aren't just more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. Some cars won't start if you use the wrong key (except for those that aren't transponder). They are therefore the best option if want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.

If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry can replace your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be linked with the original key.

A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking, but it's often cheaper than having your car towed and recovered after a theft.  spare car key maker near me 's also less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of types and makes of vehicles and are therefore a great choice when you need a new spare or lost your keys.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced. It will also make it easier to locate your car if you are in a hurry. If you're worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional keys for cars made of metal. Key fobs are small transmitter that appears more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even come with the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is useful if you need to get into a congested parking spot.

Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst time. You could be at a gas station, en route to buy some groceries, or perhaps driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for a second and then realize that you forgot to bring the spare key with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores are able to repair and create new keys right on the spot.

If your vehicle has a remote key it has a chip that requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands before picking up your car keys.

You'll have to bring your current key in order to have it duplicated at one of our locations. To duplicate the correct key/fob we'll need to know the vehicle's year, MAKE, and MODEL.

If you are having trouble with your car key, or if you're just looking to have a spare key made for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the tools and experience to design keys that last for the rest of your life. Be sure to keep it secure!