Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by Alan Weir
The Importance of Testing Your Spare Car Key: Why You Should Make It an Annual Habit
Let’s face it; we rely on our cars daily. They take us to work, school, and even on those spontaneous weekend getaways. But have you ever stopped to think about that spare key you tossed in the drawer or hung on a key hook when you first got it? It’s easy to forget about it until you need it. Before you know it, you might find yourself fumbling through those drawers in a moment of panic when your primary key goes missing. This is why testing your spare car key at least once a year is so important, and it’s something I advise all car owners to do.
The Hidden Costs of a Non-Functional Spare Key
Imagine this scenario: You’re all set for a road trip when you suddenly realise you’ve misplaced your primary key. You pull out your spare key—only to find it doesn’t work. Talk about a nightmare! The cost of having to call a locksmith at a moment’s notice can easily spiral into more than the price of a new key. Testing your spare key can save you not just time but money too. A little bit of preventive maintenance today can save you from a potentially expensive headache down the line.
Key Fob Battery Life Can Be Tricky
Modern car keys often come equipped with added technology, such as key fobs that allow you to unlock your car with the press of a button. However, like all batteries, the ones in key fobs can fade over time. A key that worked perfectly last year might not function at all if the battery has died. It’s best to set aside a specific time each year to check the functionality of your spare key. If it requires a new battery, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your spare will work flawlessly when you need it most.
Wear and Tear is A Real Thing
Aside from electrical issues, traditional metal keys can experience wear and tear, too. If your spare key has been sitting in a drawer collecting dust, it can develop rust, dirt, or even physical damage that’s not immediately visible. Worn keys may struggle to turn in the ignition or lock cylinder, which can lead to further complications if you have to depend on it. Make it a habit to inspect your spare key annually. A simple visual check can save you from a sticky situation later down the line.
Programming Issues Can Arise
Many vehicles now come with keys that are programmed to your specific vehicle. This is a great anti-theft feature, but it also means that if something goes wrong with your spare key’s programming, it may not work. If you’ve recently changed your vehicle’s settings, had it serviced, or even had the battery replaced, there might be changes that affect how your spare key interacts with your vehicle. Testing your spare annually helps ensure that it’s still properly programmed and ready for use.
Set a Reminder – It’s Easy to Forget
With our busy lives, it’s all too easy to let the routine of car maintenance slip through the cracks. That’s why I recommend setting an annual reminder in your phone or calendar to check your spare key. It only takes a few minutes and can give you peace of mind. A quick trip to your car, a turn of the ignition, and a press of the button is all you need to do. Making this a habit will ensure you’re never caught out.
DIY Troubleshooting Tips
If you discover that your spare key isn’t functioning as it should during your annual check-up, what can you do? You don’t always need to call in a locksmith right away. If it’s a key fob, see if you can replace the battery yourself—it’s usually a simple process. For traditional keys, you can clean off any dirt or rust with some vinegar or baking soda and a soft cloth. If you have a backup key that’s a bit better, try using that one instead. However, if you find that this key has issues or that repairs are needed, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional locksmith for expert advice.
The Importance of Having Multiple Spares
While it may sound a little excessive, having more than one spare key can be incredibly beneficial. Just like we suggest testing your spare key, having a back-up spare can save you even more trouble when you least expect it. Consider having a spare with your family members or even hiding one in a safe but accessible location near your home. This redundancy can provide additional peace of mind while you’re going about your daily activities.
Peace of Mind is Priceless
Let’s be real: the convenience of knowing that your spare key will work when you need it is worth setting aside a small amount of time each year. There’s no price on that peace of mind. When you take the time to test your spare key annually, you’re reminding yourself that you’re in control of your vehicle’s accessibility. You can go about your day-to-day life without the nagging worry of possibly being locked out.
The Technology Factor
As car technology advances, so do the intricacies related to key systems. If you have an older model, your spare key may be relatively straightforward. But many modern cars are equipped with advanced keyless entry systems and smart keys that might require specific programming. As technology evolves, so too does the complexity surrounding your car’s security features. Staying proactive by testing your spare key helps ensure you’re staying one step ahead of any potential issues.
Car Lockouts and Emergencies
We’ve all had that moment where we’ve misplaced our keys or locked them in the vehicle. It can happen to the best of us. When you’re up against an emergency, you want to know that your spare key is ready to rescue you from the inconvenience. Testing your spare key regularly means you’ll be prepared for an unexpected lockout situation, ensuring that panic doesn’t set in at that crucial moment when you need to get into your car.
A Good Relationship with Your Locksmith
Regularly checking your spare key is also an excellent opportunity to maintain a good relationship with your local locksmith. They can offer advice, help troubleshoot any issues, and ensure your keys—both primary and spare—are in optimal working condition. Plus, as a loyal customer, you may find they offer you a better rate or priority service should you ever need it.
Through these simple practices, you can take a proactive approach to maintaining your car’s accessibility. The bottom line is that an annual check-up on your spare key is not just about avoiding a last-minute crisis; it’s about ensuring you’ve got a reliable backup when life throws you those unexpected curveballs. All it takes is a small step each year, and you’ll wonder why you haven’t been doing it all along.
Alan Weir – Master Locksmith with 30+ Years of Experience
Alan Weir is the founder of Weir Locksmiths and a Master Locksmith with over three decades of experience. Renowned for his expertise in home and automotive security, Alan has built a reputation for providing reliable and innovative locksmith solutions across the UK.
A certified member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Alan specialises in residential, commercial and automotive locksmith services including car key replacement, transponder programming, and advanced security systems. His dedication to the field has earned him thousands of satisfied customers and glowing reviews on platforms like Checkatrade.
Now contributing to RevLock, Alan shares his expert knowledge to all of RevLocks visitors.
