10 Car Spare Key Tips All Experts Recommend

· 6 min read
10 Car Spare Key Tips All Experts Recommend

Types of Car Spare Keys

If you've lost your keys during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to your car can happen. Keep a spare car key and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.

Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines which can copy keys to homes, and occasionally car keys and key fobs. For more information and the latest prices for keys, check their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a kind of car key that permits the vehicle to be driven, but it isn't able to unlock a trunk or glove box. They are typically a cheaper alternative to a standard replacement key. They are typically employed by hotel valet parking attendants and repair shop mechanics to gain access to a customer's car. They are also used by private parties to gain access to cars when the remote key fob battery fails to function.

The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on fun rides. Valet keys act as a deterrent, making it difficult to steal the car. Valet keys can be useful for those who often leave valuables in their car's boot or glovebox.

Modern valet keys preserve the original function of older lock keys. They can still open the driver's side door but not the console or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles have features that improve security like a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine turning off.

While these features are a step in the right direction however, the valet key is not without its weaknesses. Some thieves know the limitations of these key fobs and are able to make them open using the use of a Crowbar. Valet keys can also have weaker locks as compared to the standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances, a valet key will not function as planned, particularly if it's been damaged or dropped. The key could be unable to function for a short time and the owner will need to call an expert locksmith to replace it. It is crucial to ensure that you have a working spare key in the event of this issue.

If you're in the need of an additional 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's important to know the year and make of your vehicle.

Traditional Keys

Locksmiths are able to make traditional keys because they have simple edges. They don't contain transponders and do not require encryption. They are typically made from brass or nickel, which makes them more robust and robust. They are also able to endure rough handling and severe use.

A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. It is recommended to keep it separate from your keychain to ensure it is easy to find. You could even leave it with a family member whom you can trust to drive your car in the event that you need to get locked out.

Many national chains of home improvement and hardware stores offer key duplication services at affordable costs. KeyMe is typically found in these stores. It allows you to easily duplicate your standard keys in minutes. You can locate stores near you by going to their website. Some stores also manufacture key fobs that can be used to turn on cars by pushing buttons.

Contact us prior to visiting a store offering these services. You can also check online to see what kind of keys they can make.  make spare car key near me  may not be able to create keys for high-security locks which is why you'll have to find an locksmith in those instances.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you have one. They will need to make sure that you are the owner of the vehicle before they create a new one for you. They will require proof of ownership like the registration or title to prove that.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts store or a locksmith. Both of them can make you a spare key swiftly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate the key you have or provide you with an unprogrammable, blank key. You will be required to know the year, make and model of your car to be able to get a spare key made.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys are microchips that are embedded 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 turned on the microchip emits an low-level signal. This signal contains an identification number that corresponds to the key code stored in the computer of your vehicle. The immobilizer system of your car is disarmed when the correct code is found.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. In fact, some vehicles will refuse to start if the wrong type of key is used (except for non-transponder keys). These keys are the best option if you are looking to reduce the chance of your car being taken or copied.

If you lose the keys to your car transponder chip or if they're stolen it's crucial to have a replacement key made as quickly as you can. Fortunately, many automotive locksmiths can replace the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be paired with a switchblade to provide the same functions as your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be expensive, but they are often cheaper than having your vehicle towed after theft. Additionally, it could be less time-consuming than visiting an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to repair or replace the broken or lost key an automotive locksmith may repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can duplicate keys for various kinds of models and makes of vehicles, so they're a great option if you need to replace the spare key or have lost it.

It's important to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as help you locate your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it under the dashboard or in a hidden compartment.

Remote Keys


In modern vehicles keys are needed in addition to traditional keys for cars made of metal. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iphone than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing one button. You can also start your vehicle remotely.

Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful in situations where you have to squeeze into a cramped space.

Car keys can sometimes stop working at the most uncomfortable times. You might be at a gas station, en route to pick up some groceries, or perhaps returning home from an exhausting day. You put your keys down for just a second and then realize that you forgot to carry a spare key with you. This can be a huge hassle! Most of our stores are able to repair and replace keys on the spot.

If your car has remote keys, they will have a chip that must be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate the transponder key. We can duplicate your transponder car keys while you wait. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. You'll have plenty of time to run through your routine before picking keys.

You will need to bring your current key with you in order to have it copied at one of our locations. We will require the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle to duplicate the correct key or fob for your specific vehicle.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car key or if you want to feel secure. We'll have the tools and experience to make an extra car key that can last a lifetime. Be sure to keep it safe!