How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are notorious for disappearing in pockets, couches or even out of sight. If they do, replacing them isn’t nearly as costly or difficult as you think.
You can usually obtain a spare key using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
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It was the case that losing your car keys was a major inconvenience. You could just visit your local dealership and pay a small amount of cash, and then get an alternative key. With the advances in anti-theft and car security technology the process is no longer an option. The process of replacing a lost key is now more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys aren’t as frequently used in modern vehicles and therefore are more expensive to replace. You can identify the type of key that is in your car by inspecting the key ring or by contacting your dealer.
The next step is to know the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle produced and can be found by inspecting the door jamb or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also found in the owner’s guide or on a sticker located under the driver’s side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths are often able to help you replace keys for your car key replacement that have been lost. They are also among the most cost-effective and quick options. You can also contact an associate at your local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. If they have the correct key blanks, they can usually do it for most vehicle models and brands.
You can also call roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing the car key that was lost and will typically be able to provide the transponder replacement. Some car insurance providers even provide a key replacement service as an add-on. The costs can be high especially in the event that you lose your electronic key 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 keys immediately if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key will not be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and more. You may also file a formal police report that may assist in identifying the person who took your key.
A premium car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to safeguard 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 let you lock and unlock your car by simply tapping the fob. You should always have an extra fob in your home in case you lose your car keys.
A key that isn’t a fob can still be replaced however it will require longer and more effort. The blank key must be cut and near then the key programmed to connect with the security system in your car key replacement cost. Locksmiths with the right tools and experience is able to do this, but it’s usually more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key can be obtained at the dealership. It will cost more but the dealer has special equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy of your vehicle’s identification number, which is useful for filing an police report in case your vehicle is stolen.
In some cases you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and have it programmed to your vehicle. It’s usually a simple procedure, but it can differ depending on your vehicle’s model. Bring your keys and an ID with a valid photo and an original copy of your vehicle’s title or registration to ensure that the technician is aware that you are the owner.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob can cause problems if you have a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these cases, you’ll need a replacement to ensure that the key fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people carry a spare car key.
The majority of the time, when a key fob isn’t working, it’s due to its battery dying. If the battery doesn’t work you might need to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it’s best to take your car key fob to a dealership. They’ll have the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob, and can also reprogram your car.
Keys wear out with regular use, but they can be damaged by a variety of factors. Inaccidents such as dropping your keys on an un-porous surface or getting it stuck in a door could cause dents and cracked. These damage can make your keys difficult to use or even impossible to use.
A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and efficiently, but you should only use an experienced locksmith. You should not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could result in further damage to your car or your home.
Place your key in a secure location when not in use to avoid this problem. This can lower the likelihood of it being lost or stolen and help protect your key from being damaged by elements outside. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help safeguard it from accidents and weather. This will stop your key from being worn down or damaged.
Misplaced Keys
There aren’t many things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. It doesn’t matter if they were tossed by a child at the grocery store, placed on the table where you ate lunch or left in your pockets while walking the dog, you feel like you’ve lost your most important personal item. If keys are the only way to get you to where you’re supposed to go, it can become an actual crisis.
But before you get scared take a deep breath and try these tips:
Immediately check where you usually place your keys, or at a minimum the last time you had them. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or end up underneath something, so look in those places first. Then, move to the next spot and the next. You may be surprised find them in a spot 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 to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver’s side of the door or stamped on a metal plate that is located on the dashboard. It’s also in the owner’s manual.
If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or have entrusted it to your roommate or a family member.
You can also call the police station in your town to see whether anyone has handed in a key. You could also ask around your workplace or school. You never know when someone has found your keys missing, and they might be willing to return them to you.