Key Cutting and Duplicate Keys in Reading, PA

Why You Should Get a Spare Car Key Before You Need One

Losing your only car key can stop your day cold.
You cannot drive. You might be stuck at work, at home, or in a store parking lot.

A simple spare key could prevent that.

This guide explains why a spare matters, what kind of spare to get, what to avoid, and when it is time to call a locksmith.

Reading Car Locksmith is a mobile automotive locksmith based in Reading, PA. We come to you anywhere within about an hour’s drive.

Why a spare car key is worth it

A spare key is insurance for your schedule.

Here is what a spare does for you:

  • Keeps you from being stranded if your main key is lost or stolen
  • Saves time when a key breaks, stops working, or gets locked in the car
  • Reduces stress during emergencies, like needing to get to work or pick up kids
  • Protects you from damage caused by DIY entry attempts

Without a spare, you have fewer options. You may need a tow. You may have to wait in a parking lot until a shop or locksmith can help.

With a spare, a lost or broken key becomes an inconvenience, not a crisis.

The main types of car keys today

Not every spare key is the same. What you drive will decide what type you need.

1. Traditional metal keys

These are simple cut metal keys with no chip inside.
You usually see them on older vehicles.

  • Pros: Simple, can be cut quickly as a backup
  • Cons: Less secure, easier to copy, more common on older cars

A spare traditional key is easy to use as a backup door key or starting key, depending on the car.

2. Transponder keys

Many cars use a plastic-head key with a chip inside.
The chip talks to your car’s computer.

  • If the chip is not programmed, the car will crank but not start (or will not crank at all).
  • The key must be both cut and programmed.

For these, you need a locksmith or dealer with the right tools to cut and program the key.

3. Remote keys and fobs

Some keys have buttons to lock, unlock, and pop the trunk.
There are two main types:

  • A key with built-in remote buttons
  • A separate remote (key fob) plus a metal key

The key part may still have a transponder chip. The remote buttons must be programmed to the car.

4. Smart keys and push-to-start fobs

If your car has a push-to-start button, you probably have a smart key.

The fob:

  • Talks wirelessly to your car
  • Lets you start the engine with a button
  • Often locks and unlocks the car without pressing buttons

A spare for a smart key must be programmed properly, or the car will not recognize it.

Which kind of spare key should you get

You have options depending on your budget and your risk comfort.

Option A: Full-function spare (same as your main key)

This is the most convenient option.
The spare does everything your main key does:

  • Starts the car
  • Locks and unlocks doors
  • Uses all remote or smart features

This option makes life simple. If you lose the main key, you grab the spare and keep going.
For newer vehicles with push-to-start, this kind of spare is recommended.

Option B: “Starter only” spare

For some cars, you can have a spare key that:

  • Starts the engine
  • Opens the doors manually
  • May not have remote buttons

This is often enough as a backup. You still get where you need to go.
You only lose some convenience features.

Option C: Door-only emergency key

On some vehicles, you can have a simple mechanical key that:

  • Unlocks the doors
  • Does not start the engine (no chip or programming)

This is not a full solution, but it helps if you lock your main key inside the car.
You can get into the vehicle and retrieve your primary key.

Ask for what matters most to you: full function, basic start, or emergency access.

When to make a spare key

Do not wait until you are down to one key.

The best time to make a spare is when:

  • You still have at least one working key
  • The current key has no cracks, tape, or intermittent issues
  • You are not in an emergency and can plan the best option

If your only key is already acting up (buttons failing, you need to wiggle it in the ignition, the plastic is splitting), treat that as a warning sign.
Get a spare cut and programmed before it fails completely.

If you have already lost your last key, that is “all keys lost.” You will need lost car key replacement, which is more involved.

What happens if you wait until you lose your only key

If you wait until you have no key at all, the process changes:

  • A locksmith or dealer may need to verify ownership and vehicle details
  • Special procedures or codes may be needed to cut a new key
  • Programming can take longer
  • You may need proof of registration and ID ready

You might be stuck where your car is parked until service is complete.
A simple spare made earlier can avoid that downtime.

What not to do when you lose your key or lock it in the car

If you are locked out or have lost a key, stay calm and avoid these mistakes:

  • Do not pry the door with tools or screwdrivers
    • This can bend the door frame, tear the weather stripping, or break glass
  • Do not try to remove interior panels or the ignition yourself
    • Modern cars have wiring and sensors that can be damaged
  • Do not rely on random online “hack” methods
    • Many do not work on modern vehicles and may trigger security issues

If a child, pet, or medical issue is involved and the car is locked, call 911 first.
Then deal with the keys afterward.

For non-emergency lockouts, a professional automotive locksmith can unlock the car without damage.

When to call a locksmith for a spare key

A mobile auto locksmith is helpful when:

  • You want a spare made at your home, job, or parking lot
  • You have only one working key left
  • Your current key or fob is worn or unreliable
  • You need key fob programming
  • Your key broke off in a door or ignition and needs extraction
  • Your ignition is sticking or not turning smoothly

At Reading Car Locksmith, technicians come to you in fully equipped service vans.
We serve Reading, PA and areas within about an hour’s drive, Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 8 PM.

You get an estimated arrival time when you call.
Service is mobile only. There is no walk-in shop at 929 Mulberry St.

Simple ways to store and use your spare key

Once you have a spare, decide how to use it safely.

Some ideas:

  • Keep one key on your main key ring and one in a safe spot at home
  • If you share the car, give each driver their own programmed key
  • Consider a trusted family member who can reach you in an emergency
  • Avoid hiding a key on the exterior of the vehicle (magnetic boxes, wheel wells, etc.)
    • These spots are easy for thieves to check
  • Do not keep your spare inside the car long-term
    • If the car is stolen, both keys are gone

Treat your spare as serious backup, not as a casual extra.

Factors that affect the cost of a spare car key

Exact prices vary, but these factors usually matter:

  • Key type
    • Simple metal vs transponder vs smart key or push-to-start fob
  • Vehicle make, model, and year
    • Some systems need special equipment or codes
  • Whether you still have a working key
    • “All keys lost” is often more involved than copying a good key
  • Programming needs
    • Adding a key vs erasing and reprogramming keys
  • Any extra work
    • Broken key removal, ignition repair, or lock rekeying

A quick phone call is the best way to learn what is possible for your specific car.

FAQs

Do I really need a spare key if I never lose things?

Even if you are careful, keys can break, get stolen, or fail electronically.
A spare protects you from those problems and from being stranded at a bad time.

Can a locksmith make a key if I lost my only one?

Yes, in many cases a mobile auto locksmith can create and program a new key even when all keys are lost.
You will need your vehicle information and proof that the car is yours.

Do I have to go to the dealer for a smart key or push-to-start fob?

Not always. Many automotive locksmiths have the tools to cut and program smart keys and push-to-start fobs on site.
This can save you a tow and a trip to the dealership.

If you are down to one working key or want a spare made at your home or workplace in the Reading, PA area, call Reading Car Locksmith. A bilingual technician can explain your options in English or Spanish and come to you with the right equipment.

Call us at (484) 247-1988.