How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, in between cushions on couches or even out of sight completely. When they do, relocating them isn't as costly or difficult as you might think.
It is common to obtain a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually located on your registration or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge hassle. You could go to the dealership, pay a small amount of money and receive a new key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology, this is no longer possible. Now, the procedure to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be a lot more costly and time consuming.
The type of key you're using will determine the cost. The more basic "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern cars and therefore will be more affordable to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle. You can usually do by taking a look at your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions.
Next, you will need to know your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured, and it can be found by looking at the door jamb, or windshield washer reservoir for fluid. It can also be located in the owner's guide or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of losing keys and are among the quickest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask the associate if they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. As long as they have the correct key blanks, they'll usually do it for most automobile models and manufactures.
You can also call roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to help you with the process of losing your car keys and generally offer a replacement transponder if required. auto key replacement provide car key replacement as an option. The cost can be expensive, particularly if you lose an electronic key fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you are worried about your vehicle being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key will not be used by unauthorized people and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This could result in scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and much more. You can also file a police report that may assist in identifying the person who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to protect yourself against theft. They're not just more secure than traditional keys however, they also include features such as trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. You should always have an extra fob in your home in the event that you lose the keys to your car.
A key that's not a fob can still be replaced however, it will require more work and time. The blank key needs to be cut, and the key programmed to work with the security system in your car. This can be done by a locksmith who has the right tools and experience but it's generally more expensive than replacing your lost key fob.
Another option is to purchase a replacement key at the dealership. It's more expensive however, the dealer will have special equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy the vehicle's identification number which is helpful for filing an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
In some cases you may require taking your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. This is usually a quick process, but it can depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your key, an acceptable photo ID, and an original copy of your vehicle's title or registration so that the technician is aware that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and opens it, a damaged key fob could cause issues. In these instances you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob can do its job. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail, and most have a limited life span. Many people carry an extra car key.
When a key fob stops working, its battery is usually dead. If the battery isn't working, you may have to replace the key fob. In this situation, it is best to take the key fob into an auto dealer. They'll have all the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob, and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys wear out over time with regular use, but can also be damaged by various causes. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door could cause cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and effectively however, you should use an experienced locksmith. Do not attempt to fix auto key replacement broken key yourself. This could result in further damage to your car or your home.
Keep your keys in a secure place when not in use to avoid this problem. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. It is also recommended to invest in a case that protects your key to further protect it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from getting damaged or worn down.
Keys that are misplaced
It's a pain to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a child at the store or left on the kitchen table where you had lunch, or slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal item. If your keys are the only means to get you to where you need to go and it's an actual crisis.
Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these suggestions.
Find out where you usually keep your keys or at the very least, where you kept them the last time. Look first in the places in which they may have "drifted" or gotten lost under something. Then move on to the next area and the next. You may be surprised to discover them in a place you didn't expect.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You will need to know this information to call your locksmith or dealer. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side door post or stamped on a metal plate that is on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, take it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to have an extra. You might have hid it in an accessible place at home, or even given it to a family member or roommate.
You can also call the police in your locality to inquire if anyone has turned in the key. It's not good to ask about your workplace or at school, too. You never know who might have stumbled across your keys and be willing to return them.