10 Car Spare Key Tricks Experts Recommend

Types of Car Spare Keys

It doesn't matter if you lost your car keys while shopping, or put it away while you were getting your coffee. Keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys before going out.

Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can copy house keys, and sometimes car keys and g28Carkeys key fobs. For more information and current prices for keys, check their website.

Valet keys

Valet keys are a form of car key that allows the vehicle to be operated but doesn't unlock a trunk or a glove box. They are usually a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are most often utilized by valet parking attendants as well as repair shop mechanics how to get spare car keys gain access to the customer's vehicle. They are also used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.

The main reason for using a valet key is to deter theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides, and the valet key can be used as a deterrent by making it harder to take the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the boot or glovebox of their cars.

Modern valet keys preserve the original functions of locks from earlier times. They can open the driver's side door, but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles include security features by limiting power output. This will prevent the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are a step in the right direction but the valet key is not without its weaknesses. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys, and they can use a Crowbar to open them. In addition, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on regular replacement key fobs.

In some instances valet keys may not function as expected, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the case of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have an extra.

Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need an additional key for your car or lost your Attendant Key. It is a good idea to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle handy when you come in to request an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple in design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encryption. They are typically made of brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and durable. They are also able to withstand rough handling and harsh usage.

A spare key can help you avoid from losing your car and having to go through the hassle of re-keying it. Keep it apart from your keychain to make it easier to locate. You could even leave it with a family member whom you are confident to drive your car if you need to get locked out.

Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores provide key duplication at reasonable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to locate a store near you. Some stores also produce key fobs that can be used to start vehicles with push buttons.

Call ahead before going to a store that offers these services. You can also check their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some might not be able to make keys for high-security locks, so you will need to visit a locksmith in these cases.

You will need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll require proof of your ownership such as the registration or title.

If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make an exchange key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or provide you with an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your car to do that, so you will want to have that information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys contain electronic microchips that are built into the head. This is distinct from traditional keys which use metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the vehicle. When the key is activated the microchip emits an unintentional signal. The signal is a digital serial number that is matched with the key 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 only more secure, they also make it difficult to duplicate keys for cars. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). This is why they are the best choice for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen, it's crucial to have a spare key made as quickly as you can. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or create a blank switchblade key that can be paired with the original key.

Transponder key replacements can cost a lot however, they are typically cheaper than having your car towing after a theft. In addition, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.

A locksmith can repair or replace the key that is broken or lost and can also fix your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for a variety of makes and models of cars which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or lost yours.

It's important to keep your spare car key somewhere safe, and not connected to your keychain. This will prevent you from accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car if you are in a hurry. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car keys visible, keep it under the dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob looks more like a smartphone than the traditional car key. A key fob can be used to unlock and lock your car using a button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option of "summoning" your car by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is a great option if you need to get into a congested parking spot.

Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most inconvenient moments. You might be at the gas station, on your route to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day, only to discover that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have tiny chips inside which needs to be programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the equipment necessary to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can duplicate your transponder car key while you wait. This usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to do errands before picking keys.

Bring your key to one of our shops to get it duplicated. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.

If you are having trouble with your car keys, or if you're just looking to have an extra key for peace of mind, visit your local Mister Minit store today. We have the equipment and expertise to create a spare key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's safe!