How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing from pockets, under couch cushions or even out of sight altogether. If they do, replacing keys isn't as expensive or difficult as you may think.
You can usually get a spare key by 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 inconvenience. You could simply go to your local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and get a replacement key. Not anymore, with today's advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Now, the process to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of car key you have is an important factor in the price you will have to pay for an alternative. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys aren't as frequently used in modern vehicles which is why they are less expensive to replace. The first step is to determine what kind of key you have in your car, which you will usually do by taking a look at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
The next step is to know the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique code that is assigned to each vehicle manufactured and can be found by inspecting the door jamb or washer fluid reservoir. You can also find it in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths are typically able to help you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also one of the most efficient and affordable alternatives. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask the associate if they can cut you a copy of your key. They usually can do this for most types and makes of vehicles provided they have the right key blanks.
You can also call roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able to assist you with the lost car key process and generally provide a new transponder in the event that it is needed. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an added benefit. However, the costs can be quite high, particularly if you lose the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep the spare car key in a secure place and keep it readily available at any time.
Stolen Keys
If you're worried about your vehicle being stolen, it is important to report the key loss right away. This will ensure that the key will not be used by a unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You can also make a police report which may be useful in identifying who stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is among the best ways to guard yourself from theft. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, they also have features like trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your car with simply tapping the fob. It is advisable to always keep an extra fob at home in the event that you lose the keys to your car.
A key that's not an fob is still able to be replaced however, it will require longer and more effort. The key blank has to be cut and the key needs to be programmed to ensure that it can be used with the security system of your car. A locksmith who has the right tools and experience can do this, but it is typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key is available at the dealer. This will be more expensive however, it's more secure because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that will help to protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which is beneficial if you need to submit an official police report in the event of theft.
In certain instances, you might need to bring your new key to the dealership in order to get it programmed to your vehicle. This is typically a fast procedure, however it may depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your keys, a valid photo ID and a copy of your car's title or registration so that the technician can verify that you are the owner.
Key Damage
If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and opens it, a damaged key fob could cause issues. In these cases you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob is able to perform its task. Smart keys can break and only last a certain amount of time. Many people have an extra car key.
Most of the time when a key-fob isn't working, it's due to its battery dying. You may try replacing the battery, but if that fails, you may have to replace the entire key fob. If this is the case, it's usually best to bring the car key fob to a dealer. They'll have the tools needed to make an entirely new key fob. They can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys naturally wear down with use however, they can be damaged in various ways as well. Inaccidents such as dropping your key onto the hard surface or securing it in a door could cause dents and cracked. These damage can make your keys difficult to use, or impossible.
A locksmith can fix the issue quickly and effectively however, you should use an expert. It's not advisable to try to repair damaged keys by yourself. This could cause more damage to your home or vehicle.
Store your key in a secure location when not in use to avoid this problem. This will decrease the chance of your key being lost or stolen, and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. You should also consider investing in a case to protect your key to protect it from weather and accidents. This will prevent your key from becoming damaged or worn out.
Keys are missing Keys
It's frustrating to lose 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, tossed on the table in your kitchen while you ate your lunch or slipped out of your pockets while you were walking the dog. And when keys are your only way to get to where you're going, it could be a serious emergency.
But before you panic, take a deep breath, and try these suggestions:
Examine where you typically keep your keys or at the very least, where you kept them last time. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or get lost underneath something, so look in those places first. Then, move to the next spot and the next. car key replacements may be surprised to discover them in a place you never expected.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as the key number. You'll require this information later on, either to call your dealer or locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side door post or stamped on a steel plate that is on the dashboard. It's also found in the owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, reach to it. A spare key is among the best options to avoid losing your car keys. You may have put it in an accessible place at home or given it to a family member or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your area to inquire if anyone has turned in the key. You can also inquire at your workplace or at school. You never know if someone has discovered your missing keys and is willing to return them to you.