One of the most frustrating things about RVing is getting locked out of your rig. What if you go on a road trip and forget to take your keys with you? How will you get access to all that stuff inside?
Well, there's no need to worry because we're here to help! Read on for some helpful tips on how to find the master key for your RV or camper.
What is an RV Master Key?
An RV master key is a key that opens all locks in a range of RV campers manufactured by the same company.
It's a key that can open your camper, as well as many other RVs within the brand. Usually, a key blank is used in the construction.
For example, if you have a master key from Jayco, it will work for all of the models in their line-up.
Why do I Need a Master Key for My RV
A master key for your RV is a great idea if you plan on going on road trips and leaving your keys at home. The one thing that can make or break a road trip is being locked out of the RV.
The last thing you want to do is wait around for someone to come and let you in while the rest of your family sleeps in the car.
It's also possible that these keys were lost long ago and you don't know what happened to them.
Type of RV Door Locks
In the United States, it is required by law for a recreational vehicle to have either a two-door RV lock or one entry door with the main latch and one sliding door with a deadbolt or slam latch.
The RV door locks are designed to protect the interior of your RV by preventing access to the interior compartment. However, with a few common tools, a thief can break into the door.
This section will talk about what kind of door lock is available for RVs and what you need to know before installing them.
The first type of lock is a handle lock that works as an outer and inner handle. As long as both handles are turned, it will be difficult to open the door from outside.
Another type is a deadbolt that has a strike plate on one side, which has a hole for installing it in the door frame or body paneling. It's important to note that these come in different styles and sizes depending on which side you install them on.
Also, another type is double locking. The idea of double locking the RV parts is a little bit old-fashioned. Double locking the RV means that you close the door and then lock it again. In most cases, it's not necessary and can be a waste of time.
How to Get RV Master Key?
If you've been thinking about investing in an RV master key, then there are several ways that you can find one. To make things easier, we've put together this shortlist of potential options.
Option 1 - Get an RV Master Key from Your Dealer
One way to find the master key for your camper is by taking a trip back to where your RV or camper was originally purchased. This means visiting a dealership that specializes in RVs, so you can get one of these keys made at no extra cost.
Option 2 - Contact Jayco and Get Your Master Key Resoldered
This option is only available to those people who have purchased a Jayco-brand RV or camper recently. To get your master key resoldered, contact the factory today! All you have to do is send in your old key for a free resoldering service.
Option 3 - Contact the RV Manufacturer Elsewhere
You might be surprised to learn that other brands of RVs offer master keys as well. If you know the name and address of the original manufacturer, then contact them today! Ask for a list of authorized dealers in your area, so you can get an RV master key made.
Option 4 - Use an Online Service to Get Your Key Made
If you don't have a spare set of keys for your RV or camper, then it's time to invest in an RV master key right away! You can find these online services through Google and other search engines, so be sure to check out the reviews provided by other customers before making up your mind.
How to Keep Your Master Key safe?
Once you have an RV master key made, it's time to think about keeping it safe so that it doesn't get lost. The best thing to do is invest in a vehicle-specific key chain or charm. You can find these types of products from most RV dealers and online RV shopping platforms.
Where can I Get a Replacement or Spare Key in Case of Loss or Theft?
A good place to start your search for a spare key or replacement locks for your RV is with the manufacturer. There are a few different ways to go about this.
Firstly, you can call them and ask about the likelihood of getting replacements or spares.
Secondly, you can find their contact information through google and email the company.
Thirdly, if possible, visit their website directly. If that's not an option then try looking up RV service centers in your area and contact them as well.
How to find the right locksmith who will cut me an emergency set of keys?
You can find a locksmith by looking in the phone book or on Google Maps. From there, you can contact them directly to see what their policy is on emergency situations.
Emergency Solutions in Case of Loss or Theft
The keys to your RV are an important part of owning the vehicle. However, if you have lost the key to your RV, it can be very difficult and expensive to get a new one.
If you want to ensure that this never happens, it is possible to make custom keys for your RV.
This is something that a locksmith can do for you, and it will only cost about $25-$30 per key.
Also, reputable shops like Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe's, and Camping world can make custom keys for you.
Tips and Tricks:
- Always make sure that you're carrying your RV Master Key where it's easy to find.
- Make sure always to have a copy of your unique key with someone not traveling with you.
- Keep your replacement keys in a place where it's unlikely for them to be lost or stolen.
- Be mindful of the locksmith and security professionals who contact the keys on their job sites, meaning they can be used to duplicate copies of the original key.
- Check that you're able to lock all doors before driving away from an RV park or campsite so that no one can get in when they come back later.
Final Thoughts
A master key system can free you from slinging around a bazillion number of keys.
It can also save you the trouble of experiencing being locked out of your RV. Plus, after you experience it once, it's unlikely you'll pick another system a second time.
I hope this article has served your purpose of getting the master key for your RV.
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