How Do I Get a Spare Car Key?
People lose things every day including their car keys. A spare key will save you many headaches in the event that you lose your car keys. You can purchase a replacement key at most dealerships and locksmiths, but you'll need to be able to prove ownership, such as your car's registration or title.
Dealerships
A few years ago the loss of your car key was not a big problem. It was simple to get an extra key made by a locksmith in your neighborhood or at a hardware store. As cars have become more technologically advanced, purchasing the replacement key may be more expensive.
You'll need to show proof of ownership at the dealership in order to get the replacement key. The dealer will then pair the new key to your car's ignition. This process can take several days, particularly if the dealership has to purchase a transponder chip. Keep a spare in an area that is secure. You can call the dealership if it is stolen.
You can buy a simple, non-transponder key. It can be used to open the door and start the engine. This can help you save money compared to a full-fledged key. The only drawback is that you can't use this key to lock the door, which can be a problem in certain situations.
A locksmith can also cut your keys and then reset the security system in your car by pressing a number of buttons. spare keys will differ from vehicle to vehicle, so look up the owner's manual for more information. If you don't have your owner's manual, you can find online tutorials.
The dealer may also charge a fee to program the replacement key. These fees can add quickly, and it might be cheaper to purchase the spare from a hardware store or an auto locksmith. It is advisable to get an extra before you lose yours to avoid the inconvenience of having to replace it later. Write down your vehicle identification (VIN), found on a sticker located on the dashboard of the driver or frame of the vehicle. You can also find the VIN on your insurance card or registration card.
Locksmiths
It's one of the worst experiences when you lose your car keys. Not only do you have to worry about getting an alternative, but you might be stuck in the same spot until you locate them. This is particularly true if you're in a remote location, so it's important to keep a spare key in your bag. Fortunately, it's not as difficult as it used to be. You can find an extra key from your local dealership, or call a locksmith.
You need to determine the type of key your car is equipped with. This can be done by looking through the manual for your vehicle or calling the dealer. You can search online to locate the replacement key once you know the type of key it is. You can also go to an hardware store that sells automotive keys. This is a great alternative if your car is old and doesn't have a transponder or chip.
Once you've found the right replacement, ensure that you keep it in a safe place. If possible, make sure to put it in a place that you can easily find it. You can also avoid losing your keys by making it a habit to put it in the same place each time you enter your vehicle. It should be kept in a key holder that is on your door handle or in a key bowl will help you remember where to look for it.
Another excellent way to avoid losing your car keys is by purchasing a key fob that comes with a GPS tracker. You can track the location of your car in the event that it's stolen or if it's lost. This will also help you save money in the long run since you'll be in a position to use the tracker to locate your keys that have been lost.
It's also an excellent idea to purchase an additional set of keys from the dealership. You'll save money by not having to buy keys replacements. The dealer can also provide you with the code to unlock your vehicle.
Magnetic key holders
If you're constantly losing your keys A magnetic key holder may be the answer. These handy accessories have neodymium magnets that link the keys to one spot. They are light and inexpensive and are perfect to hide in your car or house. You can attach them to an lanyard for keys to ensure you don't lose them.
These hide-a-key devices aren't foolproof however if you're looking for an effective method to reduce the chance that you lose your car keys, they may be a good option. They are not a replacement for keys that are spare or a key fob that you should always keep in your pocket. Do not leave your key fob in the magnetic holder too long, as it could drain its battery.
Magnetic key holders are available in different shapes and sizes that means you can pick the one that meets your requirements. Some have an easy slide closure with a combination lock for added security. They're also made of durable materials, which means they can withstand the elements and be utilized in any weather.
You can buy magnetic key holders designed to prevent smart key fobs deactivating. Some models are even capable of storing up to 30 keys. These hide-a-key devices can be affixed to the sides of your car or placed in the drawer. Make sure to clean the surface of the metal before placing your keys on it.
A magnetic key ring is a different alternative. It is small and easy to carry. This type of holder could be attached to any metal surface, and is ideal for cars equipped with touch-start ignitions. The holders should not be put near electronic devices because this could damage them.
You can conceal the spare key in a strange place that no one will be able see such as a fake dryer or power meter box. Often dryer vents and power meters are set outside, so that they are difficult to see by passersby. You can also bury your keys under your patio deck. You shouldn't put them in a location that a dog might get them and chew them.
Wallets
Every driver should have an additional car key. It eliminates the necessity to wait for a locksmith or contact a towing service. It will also save you money. It's also simpler to use the spare key than the original. You can keep a spare car key in your purse, wallet or even hidden inside your home. You can leave it with a trusted friend to return it in case of emergency.
If you're looking to purchase an extra key for your vehicle do not let the price outweigh the quality. Keys that are cheaper may be less expensive up front, but they can cause issues later. You should select keys that are compatible with the immobilizer system in your vehicle and comes with a warranty covering programming errors and key-fob malfunctions. You should also consider the longevity of a spare key as well as its materials.
A spare key is an excellent investment, especially if the area experiences severe weather conditions. In certain instances extreme temperatures can cause locks to freeze, which means you won't be able to unlock your car. A spare key will simplify your life and give peace of mind.
Another benefit of having an additional key is that you can share it with your partner or spouse. This will allow you to save yourself the frustration of waiting for each other to unlock the car. A spare key can also help you save time by removing the requirement to set the settings for your seat or mirror adjustments every day.
If you're a parent and have an extra car key can be a lifesaver when children are in the backseat and you need to get them to the house without causing damage. You can place it under the bumper or hand it to a trusted family member. Be sure to keep it in a secure place to ensure that your children do not be able to find it and gain access to your vehicle.
While most modern cars come with advanced security features, many older models still require keys and fobs to operate. These are frequently targeted by thieves looking to steal vehicles parked near workplaces or homes. If you're worried about losing your spare car key, you can purchase a hidden magnetic key that can fit inside your bumper.