Travelling Soon? Why You Should Check Your Spare Car Key Before You Go

A recent call-out involved a 2016 Kia Sportage where the customer’s key fell apart just days before they were due to travel. It’s exactly the sort of issue that can turn a holiday or work trip into a stressful (and expensive) last-minute problem.

If you’re heading away soon, there’s one quick win that can save a lot of hassle: check your spare car key is working properly before you need it.

Why spare keys fail (often without warning)

Modern car keys aren’t just bits of metal. They usually contain a transponder chip and remote electronics (and sometimes smart/proximity technology). Even if a spare has been sitting in a drawer for years, it can still fail due to:

• Cracked casing or worn buttons
• Battery failure or corrosion
• Water damage
• Internal circuit faults
• Everyday wear and tear

If your key is physically damaged, read:
Broken car key: what to do next

You may also find this helpful:
Common ways car keys are lost or broken

Your pre-travel car key checklist (takes 2 minutes)

Before you set off, run through this quick checklist:

1. Test both keys (unlock/lock, boot release, and ignition/start).
2. Replace weak key fob batteries if range is poor or buttons are intermittent.
3. Check the casing for cracks or loose parts.
4. Don’t keep both keys on the same keyring.
5. Know your options if a key fails:
   How to get a replacement car key

Not sure whether to repair or replace?
When to fix vs replace a broken key

What to do if your spare key doesn’t work

If your spare key isn’t responding, it may need:

• Key fob replacement or creation
• Car key programming
• Immobiliser diagnostics or repair

For programming guidance:
Car key programming
Can you programme a key yourself?

If the vehicle won’t recognise the key:
My car won’t recognise my key: what’s going wrong and how to fix it?

How Immotec can help before and during travel

Immotec provides a mobile auto locksmith service across Hull and surrounding areas.

Replacement car keys

Replacement car keys
Replacing a lost car key without the dealer

Key fob creation

Key fob creation
Can you get a new key fob without the old one?

Car key programming

Car key programming
Remote key programming

Immobiliser repairs

Immobiliser repairs

Spare key duplicates (ideal before holidays)

Car key duplicates
How to get a second car key

Emergency auto locksmith support

Emergency auto locksmith prices
How much does an emergency auto locksmith cost?