How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing into pockets, between couch cushions, or out of sight altogether. But when they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or expensive as it might seem.
It is common to obtain an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually located on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge inconvenience. You could just visit your local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and get an alternate key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The replacement of keys that have been lost is more costly and time-consuming.
The type of key you're using will determine the cost. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern vehicles, so they will be cheaper to replace. You can identify the type of key in your car by looking at the key ring or by contacting your dealer.
Next, you will need to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured by the manufacturer, and can be found by looking at the door jamb, or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also found 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 a lost key, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. auto car key replacement can also request an associate at your local hardware store to create a copy of your car key. If they have the right key blanks, they will generally do it for the majority of automobile models and brands.
Another option is to call roadside assistance. They can assist you in the process of replacing a lost car key and will typically be able to provide an alternative transponder. Some insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an option. The costs can be high particularly if you lose an electronic key fob. It is recommended to keep a spare car key in a secure place and keep it readily available at all times.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you're worried about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key will not be misused by unauthorised people and could cause costly damages to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You can also file a police report that may help identify the person who took your key.
A premium car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself against theft. They're not just more secure than standard keys and keys, but they also have features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob home so that you're not stranded without your car should you lose your keys.
A key that isn't a fob can still be replaced, but it will take more work and time. The blank of the key needs to be cut and the key has to be programmed in order that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right tools and knowledge can do this, but it is typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
Another option is to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. It's more expensive, but the dealer has special equipment to help prevent your car from being taken. The dealer will also have a copy of the vehicle's identification number which is helpful 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 be able to program it into your vehicle. It's usually a simple procedure, but it could differ according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo identification, and a copy of the registration or title of your vehicle so that the technician is able to verify your ownership.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob could cause problems if you have a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these cases, you will need to replace the key fob for it to perform its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and last only a short time. This is one reason why a lot of people carry a spare car key.
Most of the time, when a key-fob isn'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 best to bring the car key fob to a dealer. They will have all the tools needed to make an entirely new key fob, and they can also reprogram your vehicle.
Keys naturally wear down when used, but they can be damaged in various ways too. Accidents such as dropping your key onto a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door could cause cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future.
A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently however, it is important to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. It's not recommended to attempt to repair a broken key on your own. This can cause more damage to your house or car.
A good way to prevent this type of problem is to store your key in a secure location when it's not being used. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost, and will also shield it from damage caused by elements. You should also consider investing in a protective case for your key to further shield it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from wearing down or being completely damaged.
Keys are missing Keys
It's difficult to lose your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal item, whether they were thrown out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pockets while you were walking your dog. When keys are the only means to get you to where you're supposed to go it can turn into an actual crisis.
Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tips.
Check where you normally keep your keys or at a minimum, where you stored them last time. Check first for places where they might have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then move to the next spot, and the next. You might be surprised to find them in a location you never expected.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as the key number. You'll require this information in the future in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also found in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, go for it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to have an extra. You might have hidden it in a convenient place at your home, or you may have given it to someone in your family or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your area to inquire whether anyone has handed in the key. You could also ask around your school or workplace. You never know when someone has discovered your missing keys and might be willing to return them to you.