Car Spare Key 101 A Complete Guide For Beginners

Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping, or put it back when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and check places where you often leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can duplicate house keys, as well as car keys and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a kind of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but doesn't unlock a trunk or glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's car. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery fails.
The main reason for using valet keys is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joyrides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent, making it harder to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their vehicles.
Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of key locks from the past and are able to open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Certain luxury cars include security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from being started with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
While these features are an improvement in the direction but the valet key is not without its weaknesses. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use a crowbar to force them open. Furthermore, some keys for valet have locks that are less secure than the regular replacement key fobs.
In some cases the valet key may not function as expected especially if it's damaged or dropped. The key could stop working abruptly, and the owner may need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.
If you're in need of a new 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 model of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths make. They do not have a transponder, and so they do not require encoding. They are made from brass or nickel and therefore more durable. They also can endure rough handling and severe usage.
A spare key can prevent you from losing your car and going through the trouble of changing the key. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You can leave it with a family member who you are confident to drive your car in the event that you need to lock yourself out.
Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. The KeyMe machine is usually available in these stores. It lets you easily duplicate your keys that you have in mere minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some of them can also make key fobs for push button start cars.
Call ahead before visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to see the types of keys that they can make. Some may not be able to create keys for locks with high security, therefore you'll need to visit a locksmith in those cases.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can create you a new key they will need to verify that you own the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to do that.
If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll want to have that information on hand if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on by the microchip, it sends an unintentional signal. The signal carries a serial number that matches up with the key code stored in the computer system of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code is found.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys make it much harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, some vehicles will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). This is why they are the preferred option if you want to reduce the chance that your vehicle will get stolen or duplicated.
If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen, it's important to have a replacement key made as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can replace your key fob, or make an uncut key that can be paired with a switchblade key to provide the same functions as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be a costly undertaking however, it's usually less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most kinds and models of automobiles, so they are the best choice if you need a spare or have lost your keys.
It's essential to leave your spare car key in a safe place, not attached to your keychain. This will stop you from getting it lost or misplaced in the first place, and will make finding your car easier if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare key in a public location, try keeping it under the dashboard or in a secure compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option for those who need to squeeze into a tight parking spot.
Car keys may malfunction at the most inconvenient times. You might be at a gas station, or on your way to pick up groceries, or driving home after a busy day, only to discover that you forgot your spare key. This can be extremely frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new keys right on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it's likely to have tiny chips inside that must 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, generally in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to complete your errands before picking up your car keys.
Bring link home to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your car in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or want to be secure. We'll have the tools and expertise to make an extra car key that can last for the rest of your life. Just be sure to keep it in a safe place!