How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing from pockets, between couch cushions or even out of sight completely. When they do, relocating keys isn't as costly or difficult as you might think.
You can often get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It was the case that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. You could go to the dealership, pay an amount and receive a new key. No longer, thanks to the latest advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the procedure to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be much more expensive and time consuming.
The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequently used in modern vehicles, so they're cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your car, which you typically do by looking at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
Next, you will need to know the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or 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 when you have lost keys, and they are among the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also request an associate at your local hardware store to create duplicate copies of your vehicle key. They can usually do this for the majority of makes and models of vehicles provided they have the appropriate key blanks.
Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able to assist you with the process of losing your car keys and usually provide a new transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an option. However, the cost can be quite high, particularly in the event of losing the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep an extra key in your possession and keep it in a secure place.
Stolen Keys
If you're worried about your vehicle being stolen, it is important to report the key loss right away. This will help to ensure that the key is not misused by unauthorised people and could cause costly damages to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and much more. You could also file a police report, which may be useful in identifying who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is one of the best ways to protect yourself against theft. They are not just more secure than traditional keys and keys, but they also have features such as trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. It's always an ideal idea to have an extra key fob home to ensure that you're not stuck without your car should you lose your keys.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it takes more time and effort. The blank key must be cut and the key programmed to connect 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 the lost key fob.
Another option is to get a replacement key at the dealership. This is more expensive however it is an option that is safer because the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can help keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy your vehicle's ID number, which could be useful if you need to file a police report in the event of theft.
In certain instances, you might have to take your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. It's usually a straightforward process, but can vary according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key along with a valid photo identification, along with an original registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can verify your ownership.
Key Damage
If you have a smart key that locks your car's doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause problems. In these cases you'll need replace the key fob to allow it to fulfill its purpose. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. Many people carry an extra car key.
Most of the time, when a key fob doesn't functioning, it's because the battery has failed. You can try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may require replacing the entire key fob. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the tools needed to create a new key fob and can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away when used, but they can be damaged in a variety of ways. Inaccidents such as dropping your key onto a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door can cause dents and cracked. These damages can make your key difficult to use or impossible.
A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and efficiently however, you should use an expert. You should not attempt to repair a damaged key yourself. This could result in further damage to your vehicle or home.
auto key replacement to prevent this kind of issue is to keep your key in a secure place when it's not in use. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost, and will help to keep your key from becoming damaged by outside elements. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help to protect it against accidents and weather. This will prevent your key from getting worn down or damaged.
Keys that are lost
There aren't many things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal item, whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pocket while you were walking your dog. When the keys are your only way to get to where you're going, it can be a true emergency.
Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tips.
Immediately check where you usually put your keys, or at least the last time you used them. Check first for places in which they may have "drifted" or been lost under something. Then, move to the next area and so on. You may be surprised find them in a location you didn't expect.
Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information in order to call your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped on a metal plate in the dashboard. You can also locate it in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, reach to it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to have a spare. You may have hidden it in a convenient location at home, or even given it to a family member or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've surrendered keys. You can also ask around your workplace or school. You never know if someone has discovered your missing keys and is willing to give them back to you.