How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing from pockets, under couch cushions or just out of sight altogether. When they do, relocating keys isn't as difficult or expensive as you may think.
You can often get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually on your title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a huge inconvenience. You could go to the local dealer, pay a little bit of cash, and then get an alternate key. Not anymore, with today's advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The replacement of the lost car key could be a lot more costly and time-consuming.
The type of car key you have is an important aspect in the price you pay for an alternative. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys aren't as frequent in modern cars, so they're cheaper to replace. You can identify the type of key you have in your car by looking at the key ring or by calling your dealer.
The next step is to know your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or the windshield washer reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can be helpful when you have a lost key and are among the quickest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also ask an associate at your local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. They are usually able to do this for most kinds of automobiles, as long as they have the right key blanks.
Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you with the replacement of a lost car key and will typically be able to provide a replacement transponder. Some insurance companies provide a key replacement service as an add-on. However, the cost could still be high, especially if you lose the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep an extra car key in a safe location and keep it at all times.
Stolen Keys
If you're worried about your car being stolen, it's essential to report the loss immediately. This will ensure that the key will not be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to costly damage to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition or door, as well as scratches and more. You can also file a police report that could help identify the person who took your key.
A premium car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to guard yourself against theft. These key fobs are not only more secure, they also include features such as trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your car by 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 isn't an actual fob can be replaced, but it will take longer and require more effort. The key blank has to be cut and the key has to be programmed so that it is compatible with your car's security system. Locksmiths with the right equipment and expertise can do this, however it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
A replacement key can be purchased from the dealer. It will cost more however it is a safer choice since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that will help to protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy the identification number of your vehicle, which is useful for filing an police report in case your vehicle is stolen.
In some cases you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a simple process, but can vary depending on the model of your car. Bring your key along with an acceptable photo identification and a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can confirm your ownership.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and opens it, a damaged key fob can cause problems. In these situations you'll require a replacement to ensure that the fob is able to perform its task. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail and they have a limited life span. Many people carry an additional car key.
If a key fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if that isn't working, you might have to replace the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's best to bring the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the equipment needed to create an entirely new key fob. They will also reprogram it for your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away as they use them, but they can be damaged in different ways as well. Accidents such as dropping your key onto a hard surface or securing it in a door can cause cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use or even impossible to use.
A locksmith can fix this issue quickly and efficiently, but you should only use an experienced locksmith. Do not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This can cause further damage to your home or vehicle.
Keep your keys in a secure place when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chance of it being lost or stolen and help protect your key from being damaged by elements outside. You should also consider investing in a protective case for your key to further shield it from weather or accidents. This will prevent your key from being worn down or damaged.
Keys are missing Keys
There are few things more frustrating than losing your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item, whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on the table in your kitchen while you ate lunch or slipped out of your pocket while you were walking your dog. If keys are the only means to get you where you're going it can turn into an emergency.
But before you get scared, take a deep breath and try these tips:
Check where you normally keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them the last time. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to check those spots first. Then, move to the next location. You might be surprised to find them in a spot you'd never imagined.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as its key number. You will need this information later or to contact your dealer or locksmith. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or on a metal plate on the dashboard. replacement key for a car can also locate it in the owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, take it. Having a spare is among the best ways to avoid losing your car keys. It could be hidden in a convenient location at your home, or you may have entrusted it to a roommate or family member.
You can also call the police in your locality to inquire who has turned in a key. You could also ask around your school or workplace. You never know who may have found your keys and be prepared to return them to you.