How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing in pockets, under couch cushions or just out of sight altogether. If they do, replacing them isn't nearly as expensive or difficult as you may think.
You can usually obtain 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 your car keys was a major inconvenience. You could go to your local dealer and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive a replacement key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology it is no longer an option. Today, the procedure to replace a lost car key can be a lot more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of car key you have is an important aspect in the price you will have to pay for the replacement. The more basic "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern vehicles and therefore will be cheaper to replace. You can determine the type of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by contacting your dealer.
Next, you will need to know the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique car identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be located in the owner's guide or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can be helpful when you have lost keys, and they are among the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask the associate whether they can cut you a copy of your key. They are usually able to do this for the majority of types and makes of vehicles provided they have the correct key blanks.
You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to assist you with the lost car key process and usually provide a new transponder if needed. Some insurance companies provide a key replacement service as an added benefit. However, the costs can still be high, especially when you lose a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a safe location and to have it at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key isn't used by unauthorized people that could cause expensive damages to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and much more. You could also make a police report which can be useful in identifying who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is among the best ways to guard yourself from theft. They are not just more secure than standard keys however, they also include features such as trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. It's always an ideal idea to have an extra key fob at home so that you are not left without your car should you lose your keys.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it takes longer and requires more effort. auto key replacement has to be cut and then the key programmed to function with the security system in your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith with the right tools and expertise however, it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key can be obtained from the dealer. This is more expensive, but it is also more secure because the dealer has access to special equipment that can help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of your vehicle's identification number, which can be used to file a police report if your car is ever stolen.
In some instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. This is typically a fast procedure, but it could vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key along with a valid photo ID and a copy of your car's registration or title so that the technician can verify that you are the owner.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these instances you'll need replace the key fob in order to allow it to fulfill its purpose. Smart keys can break and last only a short time. This is the reason why many have a spare car key.
Most of the time when a key fob isn't working, it's because the battery has failed. You may try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. In this instance, it is best to bring the key fob to an auto dealer. They will have the equipment needed to create a new key fob and can also reprogram it for your vehicle.
Keys are prone to wear and tear with use but they can also be damaged in a variety of ways. Accidents such as dropping your keys on a hard surface or securing it in a door may cause dents and cracked. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and efficiently however, it is important to use a qualified professional. Do not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. auto car key replacement could cause further damage to your car or your home.
A good way to prevent this type of problem is to keep your key in a secure place when it's not being used. This can reduce the risk of it being lost or stolen and also help keep your key from becoming damaged by elements outside. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help safeguard it from accidents and weather. This can help to prevent your key from wearing down or damaged completely.
Keys that are misplaced
There are few things more annoying than losing your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most precious personal item, whether they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table as you ate lunch or fell out of your pockets while you were walking the dog. And when keys are your only way to get where you're going, it could be a real emergency.
Relax before you get stressed and try these tricks.
Check immediately where you typically place your keys, or at the very least the last time you used them. First, look for car key replacement in which they may have "drifted" or gotten lost under something. Then move on to the next location, and then on. You might be surprised to find them in places you didn't expect.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle and its key number. You will need to know this information in order to contact your dealer or locksmith. 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 locate it in the owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, go to it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to have an extra. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or you might have entrusted it to someone in your family or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your locality to inquire whether anyone has handed in the key. It's not a bad idea to ask about your workplace or school, too. You never know when someone has found your missing keys and might be willing to return them to you.