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Five Car Spare Key Lessons From The Pros
Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if dropped your car key during a shopping trip or put it down when you went to get your coffee. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

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

Valet keys

Valet keys are a type of car key that allows the vehicle to be driven, but does not unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are less expensive than a standard replacement key. They are usually utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics to gain access to the customer's vehicle. However, they can also be employed by private parties to gain entry into the vehicle in case the owner's remote key fob battery goes out.

The primary reason to use a valet key is to stop theft. It is not uncommon for valet parking attendants to take customers' cars for joy rides and the valet key can act as a deterrent, making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys can also be beneficial for those who regularly leave valuables in their car boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys have retained the original functions of older key locks and can open a driver's door but not the lock on the center console or trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also have features that improve security, such as a limited power output. This prevents the vehicle being started without turning the engine off.

These features are a good start but the valet key has its flaws. For example, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and they can use the Crowbar to open them. Additionally, some valet keys have weaker locks than the standard replacement key fobs.

In some cases the valet key may not function as expected in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is crucial 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 need an additional key for your car or have lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year and MAKE MODEL of your vehicle handy when you go in for the replacement.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths can easily create traditional keys due to their an easy edge design. They don't have a transponder, so they do not require the use of encoding. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them stronger and more robust. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.

Having a spare key can keep you from losing your vehicle and going through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easy to find. It is possible to leave it with someone you trust who will drive your car in the event you lock yourself out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. spare keys have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a store that offers these services. You can also look online to find out what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.

If you have a smart key, you'll need to obtain a replacement from the dealership. They'll need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. They will need proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to do that.

If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They will be able to duplicate the original key or capable of providing you with an uncut key that can be programmed to match the car's system. They will need the year, make, and model of your car to do this, so you'll want to have that information in your possession if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips embedded in the head. This is distinct from traditional keys that use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. The microchip sends out a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal contains a serial number which matches the key code that is stored in your vehicle's computers. When the correct code is found the immobilizer system of your car disarms so that the engine can begin.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it more difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will not start in the event that the wrong key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice if you want to minimize the risk of your car being stolen or copied.

If you've lost or had lost your transponder keys, you should have a replacement created as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can replace the key fob or design a blank key that can be paired with a switchblade key in order to provide the same functions as the original key.

Transponder key replacements can be costly However, they are usually cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to a dealership.


A locksmith can replace your lost or broken key and also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can duplicate keys for various types of automobiles and makes which makes them an ideal choice if require replacement of the spare key or have lost it.

It is essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a hurry. If you are worried about keeping your spare car key visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone, rather than the traditional car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using a button. It also lets you start your car remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a tight space.

Car keys may stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You may be at a petrol station, en route to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just an instant only to realize that you didn't bring the spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! The majority of our stores can repair and replace keys immediately.

If your car has a remote key it has a chip which requires programming. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you are waiting. This typically takes less than 30 minutes. You have plenty of time to do through your routine before picking up the keys.

You'll have to bring your current keys to get it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob, we will need to know your car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to be secure. We have the expertise and tools to create an extra key that will last for a lifetime. Just be sure to keep it somewhere safe!

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