How many original manufacturer keys come with a new car?
3 Answers
New cars typically come with two original manufacturer keys. For most models, this includes one remote key and one mechanical key, or two remote keys. Some budget-friendly new cars may come with two mechanical keys. Here are some related details about car keys: Key battery depletion: Most cases of car key malfunction are caused by exhausted button battery power. Simply follow the steps in the vehicle manual to open the remote key's back cover and replace the button battery. Many high-end models are equipped with smart keys featuring touch control functions. These remote keys have integrated lithium-ion rechargeable batteries and are non-removable. In such cases, you must visit a 4S store to replace the battery or get a completely new key. Under normal charging and discharging frequencies, these rechargeable car keys can last about 5 years. Key damage or loss: You can get a new key. Each car key's security chip is part of a database. A car chip reader/writer is required to first read the new key's chip, then use a matching device to reprogram the spare key's code to match the new key. Once matched, even if the old key is found, it can no longer start the car.
I remember specifically asking the 4S dealership about this when picking up my nephew's new car last year. Mainstream brands like Toyota and Honda come standard with two electronic keys - a master key and a spare. When taking delivery, make sure to verify the number of keys, as the salesperson should provide both keys in a dedicated envelope. The technology in modern car keys is really advanced - keys with remote start function require battery replacement every two years or so. If you lose one key, it costs about 2,000 RMB to have the dealership reprogram a new one, so it's best to keep the spare key in a home safe. Some luxury models even include an additional waterproof card key, which proves especially useful during off-road adventures.
A few days ago, I had a chat with Old Zhang, who has been running an auto repair shop in our neighborhood for twenty years. He said the configurations of car keys he's seen are quite fascinating. For regular family cars, it's basically a standard of two remote keys, but luxury brands like Porsche can come with three or even four keys. Old Zhang specifically reminded me to pay attention to the markings on the original keys—they usually have the brand logo and a unique code. When duplicating a key, the repair shop needs to verify this code to match it with the car's onboard computer. He also warned not to place the key near a radiator in winter, as high temperatures can damage the electronic chip inside.
