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Five Car Spare Key Projects To Use For Any Budget
Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys during a shopping trip or put it down while you were getting your coffee. Be sure to keep an extra key and look over the areas you like to leave your keys prior to going out.

Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can copy car keys and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys let the vehicle run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. However, they can also be used 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. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functionality of lock keys from the past. They can still open the door to the driver's side, but not the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury cars have features that improve security by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

While these features are an important step in the right direction, the valet key is not without flaws. For example, 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 standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances valet keys may not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key may cease to function abruptly and the owner will need to call a professional locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to make sure that you have a working spare key in case of this problem.

If you're in the need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. When you visit Mister Minit to replace your car key, it's beneficial to have the year and model 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 an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encryption. They are made from nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They are also able to handle rough handling and use.

A spare key can make it easier for you to avoid having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep it separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You could even leave it with a friend or family member who you are confident to drive your car if you ever get locked out.

Many hardware stores and national chains of home improvement 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 within minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some of them can also create key fobs for cars with push button start.

It is best to make a call prior to going to a store offering these services. You can also look 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.

If you have a smart key, you'll have to purchase a replacement from the dealership. Before they can issue you a new key, they'll need to confirm that you own the vehicle. To verify this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, like the registration or title.

If you have a traditional key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able to make you a spare key quickly and cost-effectively. 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 that, so you will be required to keep that information on hand if you're planning to visit these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is different from traditional keys that use metal contacts to open the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated by the microchip, it sends an unintentional signal. This signal contains a digital serial number that matches up with the key code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system of your vehicle is activated when the correct code matches.

Transponder keys are not only more secure, but they also make it difficult to duplicate a car key. In fact, some cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). They are therefore the best choice if you wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.

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 you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to replace your key fob, or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot, but they are often less expensive than having your car towing after a the theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace your broken or lost key and also repair your ignition and other parts of your vehicle. They can also create duplicate keys for most types and makes of vehicles which makes them a great choice when you need a spare or lost yours.

It is essential to store your spare car keys in a safe place, not connected to your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk the risk of losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you are worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

Modern cars need the use of a key fob in addition to a traditional metal car key. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like a smartphone than an actual car key. A key fob can unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars even have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is great in situations where you have to squeeze into a small space.

Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You could be at a gas station, heading to buy some groceries, or perhaps returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just one second only to realize you forgot to bring the spare key with you. This can be a nightmare! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and create new keys on the spot.

If your car has a remote key, it has tiny chips inside that must be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes which is enough time to run your errands and then pick the keys to your car.


You will require bringing your current keys to get it duplicated at one of our stores. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific car.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or want to feel secure. We have the tools and experience to design keys that last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it somewhere safe!

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