How You Can Use A Weekly Car Spare Key Project Can Change Your Life
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if lost your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Some supermarkets, such as Save Mart and H-E-B, have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy car keys and fobs. Visit their website to find current prices and more information.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of spare car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a cheaper option than a regular replacement car key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails to function.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to prevent theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' vehicles for joyrides, and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car glovebox or in the boot.
locked key in car no spare retain the original functionality of older lock keys. They are able to unlock the driver's door but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This prevents the vehicle from starting with the key unless the engine is switched off.
These features are a good start but the valet key has its shortcomings. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and can make use of a Crowbar to open them. Valet keys can also have less secure locks compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not work as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could cease to function abruptly and the owner will have to call an expert locksmith to repair it. In the event of a key malfunction it is crucial to have an extra.
If you're in the 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's helpful if you have the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths can easily make traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, and so they do not require encryption. They are usually made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They are also able to withstand rough usage and handling.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is an ideal idea to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You can leave it with a family member who you can trust to drive your car if you need to lock yourself out.
Most hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them make key fobs to cars with push button start.
Make sure to call ahead prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also go to their website to find out the types of keys that they can create. Certain locksmiths might not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have an electronic key, you'll have to get a replacement from the dealer. Before they can issue you a new key they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish this, so you'll be required to keep that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are electronic microchips embedded in the head. This is different from traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or to start the vehicle. This microchip transmits an low-level radio signal each time the key is activated. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code is found.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some cars won't start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). As such, they are the most preferred choice when you want to decrease the likelihood that your car is stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can swap your key fob, or make keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same functions as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. It's also quicker than visiting a dealership.
A locksmith can replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other vehicle hardware. They can also duplicate keys for many makes and models of vehicles, so they're a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost key.
It is essential to store your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will help you avoid getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will make finding your car easier when you're in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, store it hidden under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. Key fobs can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. It also allows you to start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. spare car key replacement cost is useful in situations where you have to squeeze into a tight space.
Sometimes, keys to cars fail to function at the worst time. You may be at a gas station, heading to get groceries or just returning home from a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize that you didn't carry a spare key with you. This can be 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 has a small chip in it that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can do this while you wait, usually within less than 30 mins which is enough time to complete your daily errands, and then pick up the car keys.
You will have to bring your current key to get it duplicated at one of our stores. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
If you are having trouble with your car key, or you're looking to get a spare key made to keep you safe visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to make keys that last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!