Learn What Car Spare Key Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Learn What Car Spare Key Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Types of Car Spare Keys

Whether you lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your cup of coffee, losing keys to your car can happen. Keep an extra 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 equipment that can duplicate keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. For more information on the process and current key prices, see their website.

Valet Keys

Valet keys are a form of spare 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 less expensive alternative to a standard replacement 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 are also used by private parties to gain access to a car if the remote key fob battery of the owner fails.

The main reason for using a valet key is to stop theft. Valet parking attendants are known to take their customers' cars on rides. The valet key serves as an deterrent, making it more difficult to steal the car. Valet keys are also useful for those who frequently leave valuables in their car's glovebox or boot.

Modern valet keys maintain the original functions of locks from earlier times. They are able to open the driver's side door however, they cannot open the console lock or trunk lock. Certain luxury vehicles that are high-end include features that improve the security of the valet keys, such as a restricted power output. This stops the vehicle from being started without the engine being turned off.

These features are a great starting point but the valet key has its flaws. Some thieves are aware of the limitations of these key fobs, and can open them with the help of a bar. In addition, some valet keys have weaker locks than the standard replacement key fobs.

In some instances the valet key may not work as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key could stop working abruptly and the owner could need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. In  order spare key for car  of a malfunctioning key, it is important to have an extra.

If you're in need of a new car key or have lost your Attendant Key go to your local Mister Minit store to have a duplicate made. It is a good idea to have the YEAR, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to get an replacement.

Traditional Keys

Traditional keys are simple at the edges and are easy for locksmiths to create. They don't contain an electronic transponder, and therefore don't require encoders. They are made of brass or nickel and are therefore more durable. They can also withstand rough handling and harsh use.

A spare key will help you avoid having to rekey your car in the event that you lose it. It is recommended to keep one somewhere separate from your keychain so that it is easy to find. You can leave it with a family member who you are confident to drive your car if you need to lock yourself out.

Many hardware stores and national home improvement chains offer key duplication services for affordable prices. They typically have a machine called KeyMe that allows you to easily make copies of your standard keys in minutes. You can locate an outlet near you by visiting their website. Some of them make key fobs to push button start cars.

It is best to contact us prior to heading to a store offering these services. You can also visit their website to find out the kinds of keys they are able to make. Some may not be able to make keys for locks with high security, so you will need to go to a locksmith in those cases.

You'll need to change your smart key at the dealership if you own one. They will need to verify that you are the owner of the vehicle before they are able to create a new one for you. They will need evidence of ownership such as the registration or title to prove that.

If you have an old key, visit an auto parts shop or a locksmith. Both can make your replacement key quickly and at a cost that is reasonable. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable, blank key. You'll need 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 open the lock or begin the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip that is embedded into the head of the key. When the key is turned on the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal carries a serial number that is matched with the key's code in the computer system of your vehicle. When the correct code is matched the immobilizer system of your car disarms, allowing the engine to start.

Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it harder to duplicate your car key. In fact, certain cars won't start in the event that the wrong 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 taken or copied.


If you have lost or had your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare created as soon as you can. A lot of locksmiths for automotive are able to repair your key fob or create an uncut switchblade key that can be linked up with your original key.

Transponder key replacements can be an expensive project However, it's typically less expensive than having your vehicle towed and retrieved after a theft. Additionally, it can be quicker than going to an auto dealer.

In addition to being able to repair or replace your lost or broken key an automotive locksmith can repair damaged ignitions and other hardware in your vehicle. They can also make duplicate keys for all kinds and models of automobiles and are therefore the best choice if you require a replacement or have lost your keys.

It is essential to store your spare car key somewhere safe, and not tied to your keychain. This will prevent you from getting it lost or misplaced as well as aid in finding your car if you're in a hurry. If you're worried about leaving your spare car keys visible, store it in the car's dashboard or inside a secret compartment.

Remote Keys

In the majority of modern cars, a key fob is needed in addition to traditional metal car keys. A key fob is a tiny transmitter that looks more like an iPhone than a real car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your vehicle by pressing a single button. It also lets you start your vehicle remotely.

Some cars have the option to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is helpful if you need to get into a tight parking spot.

Sometimes car keys aren't working at the most inconvenient time. You may be at the station, on your route to get groceries, or driving back home after a long day, only to discover that you've lost the spare key. This can be very frustrating! Fortunately, most of our stores can repair and create new key replacements on the spot.

If your car has an electronic remote key, it has a chip which must be programmed. The majority of our Mister Minit locations have the tools needed to duplicate the transponder key of your car. We can do this while you wait, typically within less than 30 mins, which is plenty of time to complete your errands before picking the keys to your car.

You will require bringing your current key to be able to have it copied at one of our stores. To duplicate the correct key or fob we'll need to know the car's YEAR, MAKE, and MODEL.

Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to be secure. We have the tools and experience to design keys that last for a lifetime. Keep it secure!