How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known for disappearing in pockets, couches or even out of sight. If they do, replacing them isn't as costly or difficult as you might think.
It is common to obtain a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually located on your registration or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It was a major hassle when you lost your car keys. You could visit the dealership and pay a small amount of money and then get a new one. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing a lost key is now more expensive and time-consuming.
The type of car key that you have is a significant factor in the price you have to pay for a replacement. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys aren't very common in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. You can identify the type of key you have in your car by looking at the key ring, or by contacting your dealer.
The next thing you need to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. It is a unique car identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs or the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be located in the owner's manual or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can be helpful when you have losing keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also request an employee at your local hardware store to create copies of your car key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they'll generally do it for the majority of vehicle models and makes.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to help you with the process of replacing your car key, and they can also typically provide a new transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer a car key replacement service as an additional benefit. The costs can be high particularly when you lose a digital key fob. It is recommended to keep an extra car key in a safe location and keep it at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are concerned about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key will not be used by an unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and more. You could also make a police report which could be helpful in identifying who stole your key.
One of the best methods to guard yourself against theft is to invest in an expensive, car-specific key fob. These key fobs are not only more secure, but also have features like trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which allow you to lock and unlock your car with simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in case you lose the keys to your car.
A key that's not a fob can still be replaced however, it will require more work and time. The blank key needs to be cut and then the key programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle. This can be done by a locksmith with the right tools and knowledge, but it's usually more expensive than replacing your lost key fob.
A replacement key can be obtained at the dealer. It's more expensive however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being taken. The dealership will have a copy your vehicle's ID number, which can be helpful if you have to file an official police report in the event of a theft.
In some cases you may require taking your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. It is usually a simple procedure, but it could depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your key, an acceptable photo ID, and the original of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician can verify that you are the owner.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob may cause issues if you've got a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations you'll need replace the key fob to ensure it is able to perform its purpose. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. This is why many people have a spare car key.
If a key fob ceases to function, the battery is typically dead. You may try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's usually best to take your car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob and they can also reprogram your vehicle.
Keys wear down with regular use, but can also be damaged due to a variety of factors. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on a hard surface or getting it stuck 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 fix this problem quickly and efficiently, but you should only use a professional. It's not recommended to attempt to repair the broken key by yourself. This could cause further damage to your home or car.
One way to avoid this kind of issue is to keep your key in a safe place when it's not in use. This will reduce the chances of your key being stolen or lost, and also protect it from damage caused by elements. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help protect it against accidents and weather. This will help prevent your key from wearing down or even damaged completely.
Misplaced Keys
It's frustrating to lose your car keys. Whether they were dropped by a child at the grocery store, placed on the table where you ate your lunch or even slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you're feeling like you've lost your most important personal item. When keys are the only way to get you where you're supposed to go and it's a real crisis.
Take a deep breath before you panic, and try these tricks.
Make sure you check where you normally put your keys, or at least the last time you used them. Check first for places where they might have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then, move to the next location. You may be surprised find them in a location you never expected.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as its key number. You'll need this information in order to contact your locksmith or dealer. You can find your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or on a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual.
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 an extra. car key replacements may have hid it in a convenient place at home, or you might have given it to someone in your family or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your area to find out whether they've surrendered any keys. It's not good to ask for help at your work or school as well. You never know who could have found your keys, and be prepared to return them to you.