How Do I Get a Spare Car Key?
People are prone to losing things, such as their car keys. A spare key can save you a lot of anxiety in the event that you lose your car keys. You can get one from most dealerships or locksmiths. However, you will require proof of ownership such as the registration or title.
Dealerships
Not long ago the loss of a car's key wasn't a huge problem. It was easy to find an extra key made by your local locksmith or at a hardware store. But, as automobiles are becoming technologically advanced, it may be much more costly to get a replacement key.
You'll need to provide proof of ownership at the dealership to get a replacement key. The dealer will then pair the new key with the ignition of your vehicle. The process could take several days, particularly when the dealer needs to obtain a chip. Keep a spare chip in an area that is secure. You can contact the dealership in case yours is stolen.
You can buy a simple, non-transponder key. This key can be used to open the door and start the engine. This will help you save money when compared to a fully-fledged key. The only drawback is that this key can't be used to lock the door. This can be annoying in certain circumstances.
A locksmith can also cut your keys and then reset the security system in your car by pressing a few buttons. The exact steps vary from vehicle to vehicle, so it is recommended to look up the owner's manual for more details. If you don't own your owner's manual, you can also find online tutorials.
The dealer will also charge a fee for programming an alternative key. These costs can quickly mount up, and you may find it more affordable to purchase a spare key at the auto or hardware locksmith. It's best to get a spare key prior to the time you lose it, so that you can avoid the hassle and expense of having it replaced later on. Note down your vehicle identification (VIN), found on a sticker that is located on the driver-side dashboard or frame of the vehicle. The VIN is also available on your insurance card or car registration card.
Locksmiths
It's one of the most dreadful feelings when you lose your car keys. Not only do you have to think about obtaining a replacement, but also you might be stuck in the same spot until you locate them. It's crucial to keep a spare key on to hand in a new region. Fortunately it's not as difficult to do as it used to be. You can either call an locksmith or purchase an extra key from your local dealership.
You must identify the type of key that your car has. This is done by reading the manual of your car or by contacting the dealer. Once you know the type of key, you can go online to find a suitable replacement. You can also visit a hardware shop that sells automotive key. This is a good option if your vehicle is old and doesn't have an electronic transponder or chip.
Once you've found the right replacement, be sure to keep it in a secure location. If you can, put it in an area where it is easy to find. You can also avoid losing your key when you make it a habit of putting it in the same spot each time you enter your car. You can help yourself remember where it is by keeping it in the key holder or bowl that you can hang on your door handle.
A key fob that has a GPS tracker is another excellent method to ensure that you don't lose your car keys. This will let you track the location of your car if it is stolen or lost. You'll also save money because you can use the tracker in the future to locate your keys.
It's also recommended to purchase an extra set of keys from the dealer. This will save you from spending a lot of money on replacements. In addition, the dealer will provide you with an unlock code that will allow you to unlock your car.
Magnetic key holders
If you're constantly lost with your keys, a magnetic key holder may be the answer. These handy accessories have neodymium magnets that link the keys to a single location. These items are lightweight and affordable which makes them ideal to keep in your car or at home. They're an excellent way to get your keys back quickly, and you can even attach them to a lanyard to ensure that you don't lose them.
These magnetic hide-a-key gadgets aren't 100% reliable but they're an excellent alternative if you wish to limit the risk of losing your car key. But they're not a substitute for a genuine spare key or a key fob, which you should keep in your pocket at all times. Don't keep your key fob inside the magnetic holder for too long as it could deplete its battery.
Magnetic key holders are available in different shapes and sizes and shapes, so you'll be able to find one that is suitable for your needs. Some feature simple slide closures and others have the option of a combination lock for additional security. They are constructed of sturdy materials that can withstand any weather and endure the elements.
You can buy an electronic key holder that is designed to stop smart key fobs from deactivating. Some models can accommodate up to 30 keys. These hide-a-key gadgets can be placed on the sides of your vehicle or placed in a drawer. Make sure you clean any metal surfaces prior to putting your keys.
Another alternative is to use the magnetic key ring which is small and simple to carry. This kind of holder is perfect for cars that have touch-start ignitions. It can be attached to any metal surface. i lost my car keys with no spare to make sure 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 place that no one will be in a position to see like a fake dryer vent or a power meters box. Often, dryer vents and power meters are installed outside so that they are obscured by passers-by. You can also bury your keys beneath your patio deck. However, you must be cautious not to put them where a dog might get into them and chew them.
Wallets
All drivers should have an extra car key. It can eliminate the necessity to wait for a locksmith to arrive or contact a towing service. It also saves you money. It's also simpler to use the spare key than the original. A spare car key can be stored in a pocket, wallet, or hidden in your home. You can even leave it with a trusted friend so that they can return it to you in case in the event of an emergency.
When you are buying a spare key for your vehicle, don't let the price outweigh the quality. Cheaper keys might be cheaper up front, but they can cause issues later. Look for keys that are compatible with the immobilizer on your vehicle and comes with a warranty that offers coverage against programming errors and key fob malfunctions. Think about the durability and quality of the spare car key.
A spare key is an excellent investment, especially if the location is prone to severe weather. In certain instances, extreme temperatures can cause your lock to freeze. This means you'll not be able to open your vehicle. A spare key can make your life much easier and give you peace of mind.
Another benefit of having an extra key is that you can share it with your spouse or partner. You will not have to wait for each other to unlock your vehicle. A spare key can also help you save time by removing the need to configure the settings for your seat or mirror adjustments every day.
If you're a parent and have an extra car key could be lifesaver when your children are in the backseat and you need to get them to the house without causing damage. You can hide it under the bumper or hand it to a trusted family member. Make sure you keep it in a secure location so that your children won't be able to find it and gain access to your vehicle.
Some older vehicles still require fobs or keys to operate even though they come with smart security features. Thieves who target vehicles parked near workplaces or homes tend to target these. If you're concerned about losing your spare key, you can always purchase a magnetic car key that's designed to fit inside your bumper and not be visible from the outside.