How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions or just completely out of sight. When they do, replacing them isn't as expensive or difficult as you might think.
You can usually get an extra key using your vehicle identification number (VIN) found on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a huge hassle. You could simply go to the local dealer and pay a small amount of cash, and then get an alternate key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern advances in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing a lost key is now more expensive and time-consuming.
The kind of key you have will determine the price. The more basic "insert and turn" keys aren't very common in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. The first step is to determine what kind of key you have in your vehicle. You can usually do by taking a look at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
The next step is to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs or the windshield washer reservoir. You can also find it in the owner's manual, or on a sticker located under the driver's dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of losing keys, and they are among the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they can make a duplicate of your key. As long as they have the appropriate key blanks, they will usually do it for most vehicle models and makes.
You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing a lost car key and will typically be capable of providing a replacement transponder. Some insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an optional service. However, the cost can be quite high, particularly if you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key on hand and keep it in a secure place.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you're worried about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by an unauthorized person and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You can also file a police report that could aid in identifying the person who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to protect yourself against theft. These key fobs are not only more secure, but also include features such as trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your car with simply pressing the fob. Always keep an extra fob at home in the event that you lose the keys to your car.
A key that isn't a fob can still be replaced however it will require more work and time. The blank for the key has to be cut and the key has to be programmed to ensure that it is compatible with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right equipment and expertise is able to do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
Another option is to get a replacement key at the dealership. It will cost more however it is a safer choice since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that will help to keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy your vehicle's ID number, which is helpful if you have to make an investigation in the event of a theft.
In some instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to be able to program it into your vehicle. This is typically a fast process, but it can vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and an acceptable photo ID, and the original of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician is aware that you are the owner.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and starts it, a damaged key fob could cause problems. In these situations, you'll need a replacement to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and last only a short time. This is why many people have a spare car key.
The majority of the time, when a key fob doesn't working, it is because its battery has died. You can try replacing the battery, but if this isn't working, you might have to replace the entire key fob. In this case, it is best to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have the tools required to create an entirely new key fob. They can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away with use but they can also be damaged in different ways as well. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on the hard surface or securing it in a door could cause cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again.
A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently, but it's important to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. You should not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause more damage to your house or vehicle.
One way to avoid this type of problem is to keep your keys in a secure location when it's not being used. This will reduce the chance of it being lost or stolen and help protect your key from being damaged by the elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help keep it safe from damage and weather. This will stop your key from being damaged or worn out.
Keys that are lost Keys
There are few things more frustrating than losing your car keys. If they were dropped by a child in the supermarket, placed on the table where you ate lunch or left in your pocket while walking your dog, you feel as if you've lost your most important personal possession. And when keys are the only way to get where you're going, it can be a true emergency.
But before you panic, take a deep breath and try these suggestions:
Make sure you check where you normally place your keys, or at a minimum the last time you've had them. Sometimes, they "drift" to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to take a look first in those areas. Then move on to the next spot and the next. You may be surprised to discover them in a place you'd never imagined.
Write down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. automotive car key replacement will require this information later on, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver-side door post or stamped on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, take it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep a spare. You might have hid it in an accessible place at home, or even given it to your roommate or a family member.
You should also try calling the police in your area to find out whether they've surrendered any keys. You could also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know when someone has found your missing keys, and they might be willing to give them back to you.