How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing from pockets, under couch cushions or just completely out of sight. But if they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may appear.
You can often get a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It was the case that losing your car keys was a huge hassle. You could go to the dealership and pay an amount and receive a new key. Not anymore, with today's advances in car security and anti-theft technology. 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 price. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern cars and therefore will be more affordable to replace. You can determine the type of key that is in your car by looking at the key ring, or by contacting your dealer.
The next thing you need to find is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. This is a unique code that is assigned to every vehicle produced and is located by checking the door jamb, or windshield washer fluid reservoir. You can also find it in the owner's guide or on a sticker located beneath the driver's dashboard.
Auto locksmiths are often able to help when you have a lost key and are one of the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also contact an employee at the local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. As long as they have the correct key blanks, they can generally do it for the majority of vehicle models and makes.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able assist you with the lost car key process and generally offer a replacement transponder if required. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an additional benefit. The costs can be high, particularly in the event that you lose your electronic key fob. It is best to keep a spare car key in a safe place and keep it available at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are worried about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key will not be used by an unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your car. This could result in damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. auto key replacement can also make a police report which may be useful in identifying the person who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to guard yourself from theft. They are not just more secure than standard keys however, they also come with features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. It's always a good idea to have a spare key fob at home so that you are not left without your car if you lose your keys.
A key that isn't an fob is still able to be replaced however, it will require longer and more effort. The blank of the key needs to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed in order that it works with your car's security system. This can be accomplished by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and knowledge however, it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
Another option is to obtain a replacement key at the dealership. It will cost more however, the dealer will have special equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. automotive car key replacement will also have a copy your vehicle's identification number, which is helpful for filing an police report in case your vehicle is stolen.
In certain instances, you might have to take your new key to a dealer to be programmed. It's usually a simple process, but can vary depending on the model of your car. Bring your key and an ID photo that is valid, as well as a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can verify the ownership of your vehicle.
Key Damage
If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and starts it, a damaged or defective key fob can cause problems. In these cases you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. Many people have an additional car key.
The majority of the time, when a key fob isn't functioning, it's because the battery has failed. You could try replacing the battery, but if that fails, you may need to replace the entire key fob instead. In this instance, it is best to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob, and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys wear out with regular use, but can also be damaged due to many different circumstances. Accidents like dropping your keys on the hard surface or getting it stuck in a door could cause dents and cracked. These damage can make your keys difficult to use, or impossible to use.
A locksmith can resolve this issue quickly and efficiently however, you should employ an expert. It is not safe to try to repair the broken key by yourself. This could cause further damage to your home or vehicle.
Store your key in a safe place when not in use to avoid this problem. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost and help keep your key from becoming damaged by outside elements. You should also consider investing in a case that protects your key to further shield it from weather or accidents. This will stop your key from getting damaged or worn out.
Keys that are lost Keys
It's a pain to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a toddler in the supermarket, left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch or even slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most important personal possession. If keys are the only means to get you where you need to go and it's a real crisis.
But before you panic, take a deep breath and try these tips:
Check immediately where you typically put your keys, or at a minimum the last time you had them. Check first for automotive key replacement where they may have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then, move to the next area, and the next. You might be amazed to find them in a place you never expected.
Write down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information to contact your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN is located on the driver's side of the door or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, grab it. Having a spare is among the best ways to avoid losing your car keys. You might have hid it in a safe place at home or handed it to a family member or roommate.
You can also call the police station in your town to find out if anyone has turned in the key. You can also ask around your school or workplace. You never know who may have stumbled across your keys and be prepared to return them to you.