Being in pursuit of a lost key may be difficult, costly, and overwhelming, even for golf cart keys. One way you can potentially avoid this issue is by determining if golf cart keys are universal. Are you an owner or a potential buyer of a golf cart? If this is so, then this blog post has been created for you to discuss the key components of understanding whether keys for your golf cart might be interchangeable between different makes and models.
As we go through a deep dive on this topic, you will have an in-depth knowledge at diverse types of locking systems available on today’s carts and ponder whether it may save you some time, money, and stress should a situation arise that requires finding compatible parts quickly.
What is a Golf Cart Keys and How Does it Work
As we have gone through many years of technological advancements when it comes to motor improvements, electrical improvements, and various customizations to golf carts, are you aware that most golf carts still require a key to operate? The golf cart key is a vital component that starts its engine. Without your golf cart key, the cart is merely a stationary object. A golf cart key works by activating the electrical system of your golf cart, resulting in initiating the engine.
When it comes to the market, there are several types of golf cart keys available such as traditional ignition keys and electronic keys with fob technology. The key to your golf cart is a simple concept, but a critical one to ensure that the vehicle operates in a smooth manner. You would not be able to tackle a winning drive out on the greens without your golf cart keys, so make sure to have the keys to your golf cart on-hand to enjoy a lovely day out on the golf course.
Different Types of Golf Cart Keys – Standard, Universal, and OEM
As a means of a convenient mode of transportation amongst golfers and those living in residential communities, golf carts have advanced in use throughout the years including the variety of keys available in the market. There are several types of golf cart keys available in the market, but it may be confusing to know which one to choose. The three main types of golf cart keys include a standard key, a universal key, and an OEM key. Standard keys are specific to a particular cart brand and model. Universal keys work with multiple golf cart manufacturers. The original equipment manufacturer designs OEM keys and typically the most expensive option. When you have a brief understanding of the differences between these key types, you will find it crucial in ensuring that you have the right key for your golf cart needs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Universal Golf Cart Keys
A popular choice amongst golf course operators and golf cart enthusiasts alike, universal golf cart keys allow anyone to operate any golf cart, regardless of the make or model. These keys offer a wide range of advantages, such as convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. This can result in ending the search for the correct key or scrambling to find the right cart for your needs.
But with great convenience comes with great responsibility. One of the disadvantages of owning a universal key is that they can easily be lost or stolen, making them a potential security risk to your golf cart. An additional disadvantage to consider when it comes to universal keys is that some golf course managers may be hesitant to adopt universal keys due to concerns over liability and safety.
While universal golf cart keys offer an incredible number of benefits, it is important to seriously consider the potential drawbacks before making that critical switch.
Pros and Cons of Having a Standard or OEM Golf Cart Key
Owning a standard or OEM golf cart key is intensely essential for securing your vehicle while you are away. These keys are great for preventing theft or unauthorized usage. But it is important to remember that relying on only one key can lead to further problems. If you lose or misplace it, you may find yourself in an incredibly difficult scenario, especially if you need immediate access to your golf cart. In this case, it would be recommended to own a backup key and have it in a safe location, or you could consider upgrading to a keyless entry system. Additionally, standard golf cart keys can easily be duplicated. So, it is extremely important to keep track of the number of copies you have, or you may wish to invest in a high-security key.
The main difference between standard golf cart keys and OEM keys is the difference in price, as OEM keys are more complex and safer for your golf cart, resulting in a higher price than its standardized counterpart. It would not hurt to own an OEM key to your golf cart as it may be a safe and precautionary investment. To briefly summarize, owning a standard golf cart key or an OEM golf cart key is a necessary and safe precaution, but it is always best to consider additional options to prevent any security issues.
Where to Buy Replacement Universal Golf Cart Keys
Losing your keys can be an unfortunate and frustrating experience, especially for golf cart owners. Luckily for you, replacement universal golf cart keys are conveniently available for purchase. But where can you find and purchase a replacement? An excellent place to start would be at your local golf cart dealer, such as us at Hartville Golf Carts. A local golf cart dealer will have a selection of keys in stock and can help determine which one fits your specific cart model. An additional note to consider is that online retailers such as Amazon or Walmart also offer a variety of replacement keys at reasonable and competitive prices. So, if you need a new set of keys for your golf cart, no need to worry. They are easy to find!
Tips for Keeping Your Golf Cart Key Secure
Your golf cart will bring you satisfaction and convenience while taking it for a spin out on the golf course, the house, or the neighborhood. However, it may be a frustrating experience to lose the keys to your golf cart or even worse if someone were to steal it. The good news is that keeping your golf cart key safe and secure is simple by following these tips.
Firstly, investing in a key chain that secures the golf cart key to your golf cart bag or pockets will keep you knowledgeable on the location of the key to your golf cart. Another tip to consider is to avoid leaving the key in the ignition at all costs and take it with you when your golf cart is left unattended, preventing theft and misery. If your golf cart has the luxury of a locking mechanism, use it as much as you can.
Additionally, we would recommend considering using an alarm or GPS tracking devices that alert you if the key is being tampered with or if the cart is being moved. You will be surprised how far we have gone with GPS technology. When you follow these simple tips, you will keep your golf cart key secure, and you will be able to enjoy a successful day with your golf cart without the worry of losing your keys or if they have been stolen.
Concluding
In retrospect, golf cart keys offer a magnificent deal of convenience and reliable access to your golf cart when you need it for an enjoyable day of golf or in the use of day-to-day errands around the house. Throughout this blog post, we have gone over the basic understanding of golf cart keys and how they work, owning the right type of golf cart keys such as standard, universal, or an OEM key, depending on your golf cart’s make and mode as well as your personal preference.
Additionally, we have gone over the advantages and disadvantages of owning a universal key to your golf cart making it the literal universal middle choice for golf cart enthusiasts as they provide a means of convenience and cost-saving, but universal golf cart keys can be lost resulting in lost time out on the greens and frustration on tracing steps. We have weighed the pros and cons of owning a standard or OEM key to your golf cart such as the difference in price and the convenience of security to your golf cart.
A local golf cart dealer or retail competitors offer a convenient way of purchasing a replacement universal key. And make sure to never forget to follow the tips provided earlier such as investing in a sturdy keychain, to never leave your key in the ignition, using a locking mechanism if your golf cart has that additional amenity, and the consideration of purchasing an alarm or a GPS tracking device furthering the safety of your golf cart and your golf cart keys.
Regardless of which type of golf cart key you will choose for your investment, having that perfect key will provide easy and convenient access to your golf cart whenever you wish to use it!
