5 Car Spare Key Projects That Work For Any Budget

Types of Car Spare Keys
Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas where you are likely to leave your keys prior to heading out.
Certain supermarkets, including Save Mart and H-E-B, have a self-service key duplication machine that can duplicate keys for cars and fobs. For more information and the latest key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but they do not unlock the trunk or glovebox. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a regular replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants and mechanics in repair shops to gain access to the car of the customer. They can be employed by private parties to gain access to a vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery of the owner is dead.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' vehicles on fun rides. The valet key serves as a deterrent, making it difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original functionality of the older locks and can open the door of a driver, but not the lock that is on the center console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This prevents the car from starting with the key unless the engine has been switched off.
These features are a good beginning, but the valet key has its shortcomings. For instance, some criminals are aware of the limitations of these keys and are able to use an crowbar to force them open. Additionally, some valet keys have locks that are less secure than those on standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as intended in particular if it's been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working suddenly and the owner will have to contact a professional locksmith to replace it. In the event of a key malfunction, it is important to have an extra.
If you're in the need of an additional 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 repair your car key, it is helpful if you have the YEAR and MAKE of your vehicle.
Traditional Keys
Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys since they have a simple edge design. They don't come with an electronic transponder, and therefore do not require encoders. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them sturdier and durable. They also can handle rough handling and use.
A spare key will save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. It is a good idea to keep it separate from your keychain so it is easy to locate. You could even leave it with a family member whom you trust to drive your car if you need to get locked out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They typically have a machine called KeyMe, which allows you to easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. Visit their website to find a store close to you. Some of them also create key fobs for cars with push button start.
Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check their website to find out the kinds of keys they can make. Some locksmiths may not be able make keys for high security locks.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership if you own one. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to confirm that you have the vehicle. They will require proof of ownership, such as the registration or title to prove that.
If you own a traditional key then you can visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both will be able make your replacement key quickly and at a reasonable price. They will be able to duplicate the original key, or they will be able to provide you with an uncut key that can be programmed to work with your car's system. You will be required to know the year and make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.
Transponder Keys
In contrast to traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to unlock the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal contains a serial number which corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. When the correct code is found, the car's immobilizer system disarms, allowing the engine to start.
In addition to providing greater security, transponder keys also make it more difficult to duplicate your car key. Certain cars won't start in the event that you use the wrong key (except for those that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if want to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or copied.
If you lose your car transponder chip keys or if you lose them, it's important to have a backup key made as soon as you can. There are many locksmiths in the automotive industry who can repair the key fob or design a blank key that can be used in conjunction with a switchblade key in order to give you the same functionality like the original key.
Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your car towed after the theft. get a spare car key made can also be quicker than going to the dealership.
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 a variety of types and makes of vehicles, so they are the best choice if you need a spare or lost yours.
It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will help you avoid accidentally losing or misplacing it as well as make finding your car easier in case you're in a rush. If you're worried about putting your spare key in a visible place, try to keep it under the dashboard or in a secret compartment of your vehicle.
Remote Keys
In most modern cars keys are required in addition to traditional metal car keys. Key fobs look more like a smartphone rather than an actual car key. A key fob is able to unlock and lock your car using an appropriate button. It also allows you to start your vehicle remotely.
Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle with a single button press similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you have to squeeze into a cramped space.
Sometimes, car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You might be at the station, on your route to pick up groceries, or returning home from a busy day when you realize that you've forgotten the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores are able to repair and provide new key replacements on the spot.
If your car has a remote key it will have a chip that needs to programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations have the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick up the car keys.
Bring your key to one of our stores to have it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct fob or key for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or you wish to be secure. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that will last for a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!