The essential car checks to do before they go — with a big emphasis on keys.
By Key to My Car — North Devon’s mobile auto‑locksmith. Call 07884 285570
Why this matters
September comes around fast. Between buying bedding and figuring out student finance, it’s easy to forget the humble car key — until it’s the only thing standing between your child and a 200‑mile trip back home. As North Devon’s mobile auto‑locksmith, we see the same avoidable problems every autumn. This guide will help you send them off prepared, safe and stress‑free.
Quick‑start checklist (print or screenshot)
- Both keys found, tested and working (remote lock/unlock + engine start)
- Spare key kept separate (bag/wallet) on the journey
- Fresh coin‑cell battery fitted to remote/keyless fobs (if needed)
- Key blades and cases in good condition (no cracks/wobble)
- Faraday pouch for keyless fobs to reduce relay‑theft risk
- Save Key to My Car: 07884 285570 in their phone
- Insurance & breakdown cover include lost/broken keys
- Tyres legal and inflated (including spare/repair kit)
- Fluids topped up: oil, coolant, brake, screenwash
- Lights, wipers, horn all working; no warning lights
- MOT, tax and service up to date; docs accessible
- USB charging lead + phone mount; emergency kit in boot
The big one: Keys, fobs and immobilisers
1) Do they actually have two working keys?
Most cars come with two. Test both for:
- Remote lock/unlock range
- Starting the engine (transponder chip talks to the immobiliser) If either fails, get it sorted before term starts — it’s far cheaper and easier than replacing the last working key.
2) Replace (or at least check) the fob battery
If lock/unlock range is poor or the dash shows a key battery warning, fit a fresh coin‑cell. Check the handbook for the correct type and changing procedure. Avoid prying cases with knives — the internal chip is delicate.
3) Inspect the case and blade
Cracks, loose flip‑blades and taped‑up shells are a red flag. A simple case refurbishment can save a lost blade and a stranded student.
4) Separate the spare on travel day
Don’t put both keys on the same ring. One stays with the driver; the spare lives in a zipped bag or with a travelling parent.
5) Protect keyless entry fobs
Keyless cars are convenient, but relay theft is a thing. Use a Faraday pouch in digs and halls; it blocks the radio signal when not driving.
6) Save a trusted locksmith
Store Key to My Car — 07884 285570. If your child studies in North Devon (or comes home here), we offer rapid mobile key replacement, key cutting and programming, and emergency entry with no damage.
7) Know what we’ll ask for if a key is lost
To help fast, we’ll typically need: registration, make/model, location, proof of ID/ownership, and a contact number. Parking bay or accommodation details also help.
Tip: If your insurance or breakdown policy covers lost keys, note the policy number and claims number on their phone.
Safety and reliability checks (the rest of the car!)
Tyres
- Tread depth: UK legal minimum is 1.6mm — aim for 3mm before winter.
- Pressures: Set to handbook values (loaded for luggage!). Don’t forget the spare, or check the sealant kit’s expiry date.
- Condition: Look for cuts, bulges or cords showing.
Fluids & consumables
- Oil: Top up to max; low oil can damage engines on long motorway runs.
- Coolant & brake fluid: Between MIN and MAX; investigate any drops.
- Screenwash: Use proper fluid for autumn grime.
- Wipers: Replace if streaking or juddering.
Battery & electrics
- If the car hesitates to start, get the battery tested. Cold mornings on campus are when weak batteries fail.
- Walk around and check all lights (including reverse and fog).
Dashboard warnings
- Amber = attention soon; red = don’t drive. Scan and fix before leaving.
Maintenance & paperwork
- MOT & tax: Confirm the due dates — don’t let them lapse mid‑term.
- Service: If near a due date, book it early.
- Insurance: Is your child the main driver if they’re taking the car to uni? Check address changes and key cover options.
- Breakdown cover: Make sure it follows the driver, not just the car at home.
Practical extras for student life
- Phone mount and charging lead
- Ice scraper/de‑icer (yes, freshers meet frost!)
- Hi‑vis, basic first‑aid kit, torch
- A printed copy of important numbers and the home address
What to do if your child loses their car key at uni
- Stay safe and keep the car in sight if possible.
- Call us: 07884 285570 (if in North Devon) — we can cut and program replacement keys, repair fobs, and gain entry without damage.
- Have details ready: reg, make/model, exact location, a callback number.
- Consider security: If a key is stolen, we can erase the missing key from the car’s memory and program new ones.
- Update insurance if required and keep the claim reference.
Why choose Key to My Car
- Mobile: We come to your home, halls or roadside across North Devon
- Fast: Same‑day help where possible
- Specialists: Keys cut & programmed for most makes
- No damage: Non‑destructive entry techniques
Save this now: Key to My Car — 07884 285570
Handy FAQs for parents
Q: My child only has one key. Is that a problem?
Yes — losing it can immobilise the car and cost more. Get a spare cut/programmed before term.
Q: Their remote still locks the car but won’t start it. Why?
The transponder chip may be damaged or missing. We can diagnose and supply a working key.
Q: Can you help if the key snaps in the door or ignition?
Yes. We extract broken blades and can replace the key the same visit.
Q: They’re not in North Devon during term. What then?
If they’re away, we’re happy to advise by phone. When they’re home for holidays, we can service, repair or replace keys.
Get set for a smooth September
A little prep now saves panic later. Run through the checklist together this weekend, test both keys, and pop a Faraday pouch in their uni bag. And if anything goes wrong, we’re only a call away.
Key to My Car — North Devon
Call: 07884 285570
Website: keytomycar.co.uk
