How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing in pockets, under couch cushions, or out of sight completely. But when they do, getting replacement keys isn't as difficult or costly as it may seem.
You may be able to get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually found on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It was the case that losing your car keys was a huge inconvenience. You could just go to your local dealer, pay a little bit of money, and get a replacement key. With the advances in anti-theft and security for cars technology, this is no longer an option. The process of replacing keys that have been lost is more time-consuming and expensive.
The type of key you have will determine the price. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys aren't popular in modern cars and therefore will be more affordable to replace. The first step is to identify what kind of key you have in your car, which you typically do by looking at your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions.
The next thing you need to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle produced, and it can be found by looking at the door jamb or washer reservoir for fluid. cost of a car key replacement is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths are usually equipped to assist you in replacing a lost car key. They are also one of the most cost-effective and quick alternatives. You can also contact an employee at your local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. If they have the appropriate key blanks, they will usually do it for most vehicle models and brands.
You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They can help you with the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will usually be in a position to supply an alternative transponder. Some insurance companies offer a replacement car key service as an add-on. The costs can be high especially when you lose a digital key fob. It is recommended to keep the spare car key in a secure location and keep it available at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key is not used by unauthorized people and could cause expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You can also file an official police report that could assist in identifying the person who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is among the best ways to safeguard yourself against theft. These key fobs aren't only more secure, but also have features like trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your car with simply tapping the fob. It's always recommended to keep an extra key fob at home to ensure that you're not left without your car should you lose your keys.
A key that isn't an fob is still able to be replaced however it will require longer and more effort. The blank key has to be cut, and the key programmed to function with the security system of your vehicle. A locksmith with the right tools and experience can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
A replacement key can be obtained from the dealer. This will be more expensive however, it's a safer choice because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that can help keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy of your vehicle's ID number, which could be beneficial if you need to file a police report in the event of a theft.
In some cases you may need to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a simple process, but can vary according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key along with an acceptable photo ID, and an original copy of your vehicle's registration or title so that the technician is aware that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob may cause problems if you have a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these instances you'll need replace the key fob for it to perform its job. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. This is why many people have a spare car keys.
The majority of the time, when a key fob doesn't working, it is because the battery has failed. If the battery isn't working, you might need to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the tools required to create the new key fob and can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys naturally wear down with use but they can also be damaged in different ways too. Accidents such as dropping your key onto an un-porous surface or securing it in a door could cause cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can solve this problem quickly and efficiently however, you should employ a professional. You should not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause further damage to your vehicle or home.
A good way to prevent this type of problem is to store your key in a safe place when not in use. This will reduce the chance of it being lost or stolen, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by the elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help keep it safe from damage and weather. This will help prevent your key from getting worn down or damaged.
Keys that are misplaced
It's frustrating to lose your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item, regardless of whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table while you ate lunch, or fell out of your pocket while you were walking the dog. And when keys are the only way to get to where you're headed, it could be a real emergency.
Take a deep breath before you panic, and try these tricks.
Examine where you typically keep your keys or at a minimum, where you stored them last time. Look first in the places where they might have "drifted" or been lost under something. Next, shift to the next location. You may be surprised to find them in places you never expected.
Note down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need to know this information to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to have a spare. You might have hid it in a convenient location at home or given it to a roommate or family member.
You can also call the police in your locality to find out whether anyone has handed in keys. You could also ask around your school or workplace. You never know if someone has discovered your missing keys, and they might be willing to give them back to you.