How Do I Get a Spare Car Key?
People are constantly losing things, including their car key. A spare key can help you avoid lots of trouble in the event that you lose your car keys. You can get a new key at many locksmiths and dealerships, but you'll need to have proof of ownership such as the car's registration or title.
Dealerships
A few years ago, losing your car key was not a huge issue. It was easy to find a spare made by your local locksmith or at the hardware store. But, as automobiles have become more technologically advanced, it could be much more costly to purchase a new key.
To obtain a replacement, you'll need to go to the dealership and show proof of ownership. The dealer will then pair the new key with your car's ignition. This process can take a few days, especially if the dealer has to obtain a chip. Keep a spare chip in a safe location. You can contact the dealership if yours is stolen.
You can purchase a basic non-transponder key. This key can be used to unlock the door and start the engine. This will save you lots of dollars compared to buying a full-fledged key. The only drawback is that you cannot use this key to lock the door, which can be a nuisance in some situations.
A locksmith could also cut your key and then reset the security system of your car by pressing a number of buttons. The exact steps vary from vehicle to vehicle, so check the owner's manual for more details. You can also look online for instructions if you don't have the owner's manual.
It's also important to know that the dealer may charge a fee to program the replacement key. These fees can add up quickly, and it may be more affordable to buy an extra key at a hardware store or an auto locksmith. It is advisable to get a spare before you lose it to avoid the hassle of replacing it in the future. To do so, write down your vehicle identification number (VIN) that can be located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side or the frame of the car. The VIN is also available on your insurance card or registration card for your car.
Locksmiths
If you lose your keys It's one of those awful feelings. Not only do you need to worry about getting another one, but you might be stuck until you locate them. It's crucial to keep a spare key on the go in a new area. Fortunately it's not as difficult as it was in the past. You can get a spare key from your local dealership, or you can contact a locksmith.
The first thing to determine is what kind of key your car has. This is done by reading the manual for your vehicle or by contacting the dealer. Once you know the type of key you need, you can look online for a suitable replacement. You can also visit a hardware store that sells automotive keys. This is a great option if your car is old and does not have an electronic transponder or chip.
After you've located the correct replacement, be sure to keep it in a secure location. If you can, put it in a location where it is easy to find. You can also make sure you don't lose your key by habitually keeping it in the same spot every time you enter your vehicle. Keeping it in a key holder attached to your door handle or in a key bowl can make it easier to remember where to find it.
A key fob that has a GPS tracker is a great way to prevent losing your car keys. This will allow you to track the location of your car if it is stolen or lost. This will also help you save money over the long term because you'll be able to use the tracker to locate your keys that have been lost.
It's also a good idea to buy an additional set of keys from the dealer. This will prevent you from having to pay lots of money for replacements. Furthermore the dealer will provide you with the key code to unlock your car.
Magnetic key holders
If you're constantly lost with your keys A magnetic key holder might be the solution. These items are equipped with neodymium magnetic strips which hold the keys in their place. They're also extremely light and cost-effective and are perfect to hide in your car or home. They're a great way to return your keys quickly and you can connect them to a lanyard so you don't lose them.
These hide-a-key gadgets aren't foolproof however if you're looking for a way to minimize the risk that you will lose your car keys, they can be a great option. However, they're not an alternative to a real spare key or key fob that you should keep in your pocket at all times. You should never put your key fob away in a magnetic holder for too long, since it can drain the battery.
Magnetic key holders are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can find the one that meets your requirements. Some magnetic key holders come with an easy sliding closure, and others include an integrated lock for greater security. These are made from sturdy materials that can withstand all weather conditions and withstand the elements.
You can buy a magnetic key holder designed to prevent smart key fobs from deactivating. Some models are even capable of storing up to 30 keys. These hide-a-key gadgets can be placed on the sides of your vehicle, or put in a drawer. Just make sure to clean the surface of the metal before placing your keys on it.
A key ring with a magnetic magnet is a different option. It is small and lightweight. This type of holder can be affixed to any metal surface, and is ideal for cars with touch-start ignitions. It is essential to ensure that the holder doesn't sit in close proximity to any electronic devices because they could cause damage to them.
You can hide your spare key in a unique location that nobody will be able to see, such as a fake dryer vent or a power meters box. Dryer vents and power meter boxes are often fitted outdoors, which makes them difficult to spot by those passing by. You can also place your keys underneath your patio deck. It is not recommended to put them in a place that a dog might get them and chew them.
Wallets
All drivers should have an additional car key. It helps save money by removing the necessity to call a towing company or wait for a locksmith. It's also much simpler to use the spare than the original. You can keep a spare car key in your wallet, pocket or even in your house. You can also leave it with someone you trust so that they can retrieve it in case of emergency.
When you are buying an extra key for your car, don't let the price outweigh the quality. Cheaper keys may cost less in the beginning, but could result in a myriad of issues later on. Look for a key that is compatible with your vehicle's immobilizer system, and comes with a warranty that offers security against programming errors as well as key fob malfunctions. You should also think about the longevity of a spare key and its materials.
A spare key can be an excellent investment, particularly when you live in a region that experiences frequent weather conditions. In certain instances, extreme temperatures can cause your lock to freeze. This means you'll be unable to open your vehicle. An extra key will make your life easier and will give you peace of mind.
You could also share the spare key with your partner or spouse. This will allow you to save yourself the frustration of waiting around for each other to unlock the car. A spare key can also reduce time by removing the need for daily seat adjustments or mirror adjustments.
If you're a parent and have an extra car key could be lifesaver when children are in the back seat and you need to get them to the house without causing damage. You can either hide it under your car bumper or give it to a trusted family member. Place it in a safe place so that your children cannot get into your vehicle.
While make a spare key come with smart security features however, some older models require keys and fobs to operate. Thieves who target vehicles parked close to homes or workplaces are often targeting these. If you're concerned about losing your spare car key, you can buy an invisible magnetic key that fits inside your bumper.