What Is Car Spare Key And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?
Types of Car Spare Keys
It doesn't matter if dropped your car keys while shopping or if you put it back when you went to get your coffee. Be sure to keep a spare key and check the areas you like to leave your keys prior to leaving.
Grocery stores such as Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication equipment that can duplicate house keys, and sometimes keys for cars and key fobs. For more information and current key prices, see their website.
Valet Keys
Valet keys are a type of car key that permits the vehicle to be operated but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are a less expensive option than a regular replacement car key. Most often, they are used by hotel valet attendants and mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of customers. They can also be used by private parties to gain access to a vehicle if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.
The primary reason to use valet keys is to stop theft. It is not unusual for valet parking attendants to take cars of customers for joy rides and the valet keys can be used as a deterrent by making it more difficult to steal the vehicle. Valet keys are also helpful for those who have valuables in the glovebox or boot of their cars.
Modern valet keys have remained in the original function of older key locks, and they can still open a driver's door but not the lock on the central console or the trunk. Some high-end luxury cars also come with security features like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.
These features are a great starting point however, the valet key comes with drawbacks. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs and are able to open them with the use of a bar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key may not function as expected particularly if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner may have to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is important to make sure that you have a valid spare key in case of this happening.
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 important to know the year and make of the vehicle you are using.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys have a simple design at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain transponders and don't require encoding. They are typically made from brass or nickel, making them stronger and more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car if you lose it. Keep G28CarKeys from your keychain to make it easier to find. You could even leave it with a family member you can trust to drive your car in the event that you ever lock yourself out.
The majority of hardware stores and national home improvement chains provide key duplication services at affordable costs. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can easily make copies of your keys in a matter of minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
It is recommended to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to find out the types of keys that they are able to make. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for high security locks.
If you have a smart key, you will need to obtain a replacement from the dealership. Before they can create you a new key they'll need to prove that you own the vehicle. To do this, they'll require evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can go to an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them will be able to create your spare key quickly and affordably. They will be able to duplicate the original key or in a position to give you a blank key that could be programmed to match your car's key system. They will require the year, make, and model of your car to do that, so you will want to have that information handy if you are planning on going to these locations to have your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which make use of metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys are equipped with an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. The microchip emits a low-level radio signal when the key is activated. The signal carries a serial number that matches with the key code in your vehicle's computer system. The immobilizer system in the car is disarmed when the correct code matches.
Apart from providing additional security, transponder keys make it harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, certain cars will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for keys that are not transponder). These keys are the best option if wish to reduce the chances of your car being stolen or copied.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen, you must get a new one made as soon as possible. Many locksmiths in the automotive industry are able to repair your key fob, or create an empty switchblade key that can be joined with the original key.
A transponder key replacement can be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. Additionally, it can be faster than visiting the dealership.
In addition to being able to replace your broken or lost keys, an automotive locksmith can also repair damaged ignitions and other components in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various makes and models of vehicles, so they're an ideal choice if require a replacement for your spare or lost key.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from the risk of losing or misplacing it. It also makes it easier to locate your car when you're in a hurry. 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 the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional car keys made of metal. A key fob is a small transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car with the press of an appropriate button. You can also start your car remotely.
Certain cars also have the option of "summoning" your vehicle by pressing a button, much like Tesla's summon feature. This is great when you need to squeeze into a small space.
Sometimes, car keys stop working at the worst possible time. You might be at a gas station, en route to get groceries, or simply driving home after an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you didn't bring a spare key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, the majority of our stores can repair and provide new keys on the spot.
If your vehicle has a remote key it will have a chip that needs to programmed. Most of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate your transponder car keys. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.
You'll need to bring your current key to get it duplicated at one of our locations. We will need to know the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific car.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you need a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We have the equipment and expertise to design an extra key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure it's secure!