How Many Keys Are Generally Provided When Buying a Car?

[IanAnn]

When buying a car, two keys are generally provided—one as a spare and the other for daily use. The primary function of car keys is to remotely lock and unlock the car doors. By holding down the lock button on the key, you can close the windows. Pressing the red horn-shaped button on the key helps locate the car, while pressing the trunk unlock button automatically pops open the trunk. Basic principle of car keys: A weak radio wave is emitted from the owner's vicinity, which is received by the car's antenna. The electronic control unit (ECU) then identifies the signal code, and the system's actuator performs the locking or unlocking operation. How to start the car if the key battery is dead: Each key contains an electromagnetic coil that emits microwaves. The push-to-start button also has an electromagnetic coil to receive these microwaves and relay them to the car's computer. The computer analyzes whether the key matches the vehicle—if it does, the car will start.

[AnaLynn]

When I bought my first car, I was also quite curious about this question. The salesperson told me that they usually provide two keys—one for regular use and one as a spare. My Japanese car came with traditional mechanical keys, but nowadays many new cars come with smart keys, and some luxury brands even include an additional card key. I recommend testing both keys right after picking up the car to ensure they work properly, so you don’t discover a faulty spare key later when you really need it. It’s also a good idea to attach a small label to the keychain to distinguish between the primary and spare keys, and store them in different places. Losing a key can be a hassle—replacement costs at dealerships aren’t cheap, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan, and you’ll need to reprogram the anti-theft system. I suggest buying a key protector to reduce wear and prevent battery compartment loosening, which can cause poor contact.

[Roy]

When it comes to car keys, it's standard practice to receive two sets upon vehicle delivery. In the past, there were basically two types: mechanical keys and remote key fobs. But nowadays, new energy vehicles are different. My domestic electric car came with two Bluetooth keys, and the central control screen can even generate digital keys to share access with family members. However, don't carelessly store spare keys – once I tucked a spare in my suitcase for a business trip, only for my child to throw the primary key into the fish tank as a toy, leaving me sweating bullets. Ended up spending over 800 yuan on a locksmith to replace it. My advice: keep spares in a fixed spot at home, or invest in a small password-protected safe. Some premium models now even support phone NFC unlocking, effectively serving as a third virtual key.

[VanSadie]

Just accompanied a friend to pick up the car, and the salesperson directly took out two key boxes from the cabinet. Currently, over 90% of new cars on the market come standard with two keys, divided into a primary key and a spare key. Common B-segment cars typically feature smart keys with keyless entry functionality, and the spare key actually has the same circuit board as the primary key. Special attention is needed in winter as the battery is prone to draining. I've seen embarrassing situations where both keys ran out of power and couldn't open the door. It's recommended to check the key battery voltage every six months. You can buy a CR2032 battery at the supermarket and replace it yourself. Nowadays, some brands charge extra for a third key, so remember to check the list when picking up the car.