Buying a car can be stressful, negotiations, paperwork and a high price are all common occurrences that cause stress at the best of times. But what happens if you buy a used car and discover that the key won’t open the door?

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Well that’s what happened to TikTok user Aspen Anonda (@aspenanonda) when she purchased a used vehicle Honda CR-V.

She garnered over 293,000 views when she shared how a dealership sold her a key that wouldn’t open the door.

What is his dilemma?

Anonda purchased a used Honda CR-V about three days ago and discovered how the process isn’t always as simple as you think.

After waiting to test drive the car, she then faced an interminable wait before finally leaving the parking lot in her new Honda CR-V.

After a celebratory dinner, Anonda went to unlock her car and discovered that although her key started the car, it would not open the car door. Frustrated, she called the seller to explain her situation and he told her she should “call 911” for help.

After waiting an hour and a half for non-emergency services, she finally got into her car and was able to go home.

Unfortunately, the situation left her helpless and confused as to why a dealership would sell her a car with a key that won’t open the door.

“I want to go in there and demand that they pay for me to get a fob key to unlock and unlock. But I’m really afraid that my seller is so nice and I won’t be able to defend myself. Now I have to drive an hour to the dealership to be able to get a key to lock and unlock my car,” Anonda said.

What did viewers think?

Several users encouraged her, saying she deserved a key that would work on her Honda CR-V.

“You have this. This is definitely a problem THEY need to fix,” one said.

“I would have told them someone would give me a ride and I would return the vehicle if they didn’t fix this. Most dealers have a short return window for the ‘right to cancel’, advised a second.

“They had to be able to lock/unlock the car somehow… They wouldn’t leave it unlocked in the parking lot. So… Where is the key? » asked another.

“Buying a car and moving are two of the most stressful things that can happen in an adult’s life. Why does it have to be so exhausting!? » a fourth remarked.

“So invested!! You deserve a new keychain at the very least,” one user said.

Others claimed that his key was a valet key. Valet keys are used to start cars, but do not lock them.

“It’s probably a valet key.” This will only start the car. It is not intended to lock or unlock and will not work in any compartments that have locks, such as the glove box,” one user said.

“So this is a spare key that many cars have. This is called a valet key. They’re usually gray, they should give you a fully functioning key at the very least,” agreed a second.

“Looks like the ignition switch has already been replaced,” added a third.

What is a valet key?

According to Technological targeta key fob is “a small programmable device that provides access to a physical object” and is “part of a class of physical security tokens that includes smart cards, proximity cars, and biometric key fobs keyless entry”.

They work by emitting a short-range radio transmission that sends a “distinct code signal” that allows entry.

According to Tom’s Key CompanyThe Honda CR-V’s remote entry system is known as “Honda CR-V Keyless Entry”. It is a handheld device with a built-in authorization code. On advanced models, most keyless entry systems do not have a physical key attached. The benefits of this system include simplicity, convenience, additional security benefits, and additional features.

The key manufacturer explains that there are two options for replacing a CR-V’s key: an original manufacturer key and a replacement key.

An OEM key is tailored to your specific vehicle. However, this is a more expensive option.

The second option is aftermarket keys. These come from third-party companies that create a cheaper version than an OEM key. There are two types: generic unbranded modules and others made by reliable manufacturers.

People can purchase them from third-party websites or from specialist locksmiths, with some brands coming with programming instructions. Although a cheaper brand may seem like a good idea, it’s still important to do your research in advance.

@aspenanonda

I’m brave, I’m tough, I’m strong

♬ original sound – AspenAnonda

The Daily Dot reached out to Anonda via TikTok comments and Honda via email for comment.

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