How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing from pockets, under couch cushions, or completely out of sight. But if they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or expensive as it might seem.
You can often get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It was the case that losing keys to your car was a huge hassle. You could visit your local dealer, pay a little bit of money, and receive an alternative key. Not anymore, with today's advances in car security and anti-theft technology. The replacement of keys for a car that have been lost can be more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of car key you have is a significant element in the price you pay for an alternative. The more basic "insert and turn" keys aren't common in modern vehicles, so they will be more affordable to replace. You can determine the kind of key you have in your car by looking at the key ring or by calling your dealer.
The next thing to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. 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. It is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker under the driver's dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of lost keys, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also contact an associate at the local hardware store to make copies of your car key. They are usually able to do this for all makes and models of vehicles, as long as they have the right key blanks.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able to help you with the lost car key process and typically provide a new transponder if required. Some car insurance providers even provide a key replacement service as an added benefit. The cost can be expensive, particularly in the event that you lose your electronic key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep a spare key available and keep it in a secure place.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key isn't used by unauthorized people, which could result in expensive damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and much more. You can also submit a police report which may be useful in identifying whoever stole your key.
One of the best methods to protect yourself from theft is to buy a high-quality, car-specific key fob. These key fobs are not only more secure, they also have features like trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. Always keep an extra fob in your home in case you lose your car keys.
A key that's not an actual fob can 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. Locksmiths with the right tools and knowledge is able to do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
A replacement key is available at the dealer. It will cost more however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which is helpful if you have to file an official police report in the event of a theft.
In some cases you may have to take your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. It is usually a simple procedure, but it could differ according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and an acceptable photo ID, and an original copy of your vehicle's registration or title so that the technician can verify that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob can cause problems if you own an electronic car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In automotive car key replacement need replace the key fob to allow it to fulfill its purpose. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and have a limited lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car key.
Most of the time when a key fob isn't working, it is due to its battery dying. If the battery doesn't function, you may have to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's best to take your car key fob to a dealership. They will have all the equipment necessary to create a new key fob and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys wear out with regular use, but can be damaged by various causes. Accidents such as dropping your key on a hard surface or securing it in a door may result in cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again.
A locksmith can resolve this problem quickly and efficiently however, you should use a professional. You should not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could cause more damage to your home or vehicle.
Keep your keys in a secure location when not in use to avoid this issue. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost, and will help to keep your key from becoming damaged by outside elements. You should also consider investing in a case that protects your key to protect it from weather or accidents. This will stop your key from becoming worn down or damaged.
Keys are missing Keys
It's frustrating to lose your car keys. It doesn't matter if they were tossed by a child in the grocery store, placed on the table where you had lunch or left in your pocket while walking the dog, you're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item. And when keys are the only way to get where you're headed, it could be a true emergency.
Take a deep breath before you panic, and try these suggestions.
Examine where you typically keep your keys, or at least where you kept them last time. Look first in the places where they might have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then, move to the next location and then on. You might 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. You'll require this information later on or to contact your dealer or a locksmith. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a steel plate on the dashboard. It's also in the owner's manual.
If you have a spare key, reach to it. A spare key is one of the best options to prevent losing your car keys. You might have hid it in a safe place at home or handed it to your roommate or a family member.
You should also try calling the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've handed over any keys. You could also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know who may have found your keys and be willing to return them.