Is it a problem if the car key is dropped?
3 Answers
You can try using the remote control; if it works, then it's not broken. The chip inside the key is relatively fragile, so be careful not to drop it frequently. Dropping it occasionally is fine. Below are solutions for what to do if you lose your car key: 1. Use the spare key: Generally, cars come with two keys, one for regular use and the other as a spare. If the regular key is lost, the spare key can be used. Therefore, it's important to remember not to keep the spare key in the car; always store it in a safe place at home. Otherwise, if the regular key is lost and the spare key is also in the car, you'll have to call a locksmith. 2. Professional locksmith services: If the car is far from the spare key or the spare key is also lost, you should contact a professional locksmith company to unlock the car. Usually, you'll need to provide proof that the car belongs to you, such as an ID card or vehicle registration. 3. Visit a 4S shop: Every car comes with an anti-theft code. By providing the vehicle registration and personal information to the 4S shop, they can retrieve the anti-theft code and configure a new key. Additionally, they can erase the data of the lost key, rendering it invalid for starting the car (though it may still open the door). Therefore, the 4S shop may also recommend replacing all the locks for added security.
I often encounter this situation where dropping the car key might be fine but could also cause issues. The key is designed to be quite sturdy, and minor drops usually don’t damage it. However, if it falls on a hard surface, the casing might crack or the battery contacts could become loose. Don’t worry too much—pick it up immediately and test it: press the unlock button to see if the car responds, then insert the key and try starting the vehicle to check its functionality. If it works normally, it’s likely fine; if not, there might be internal circuit loosening or a chip malfunction, requiring professional inspection. For maintenance, regularly checking the battery level is crucial, as drops are more damaging when the battery is low. It’s advisable to buy a small protective case for the key to reduce accidents. In the long run, avoid keeping hard objects mixed with the key in your pocket for added safety.
Having used my car for many years, I've dropped the car keys several times, and most of the time it was a false alarm. Modern keys are quite durable, and minor impacts are unlikely to cause immediate failure, but it's good to test them: first, remotely unlock the car doors, then try to start the engine. If everything works fine, you can continue using them; if not, promptly switch to the spare key or visit a key repair shop. Potential issues after dropping include cracked casing or electronic contact problems—a simple solution is to check if the battery is loose and try replacing it with a new one. Experience tells you that getting a new key can be costly, especially for smart keys, so developing a habit of hanging your keys can prevent drops. For safety, check the key's condition during annual maintenance—it saves time and money.
