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 as costly or difficult as you may think.
It is common to obtain a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually found on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It was a major inconvenience when you lost your car keys. You could just go to the local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive a replacement key . With the advances in anti-theft and security for cars technology, this is no longer possible. The process of replacing a lost key is now more costly and time-consuming.
The type of car key that you have is an important aspect in the price you will pay for an alternative. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys aren't very popular in modern cars which is why they are cheaper 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 by calling your dealer for specific instructions.
The next thing you need to find is the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs and windshield washer reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths are usually able to help you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also among the most efficient and affordable options. You can also contact an employee at the local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. They usually can do this for the majority of makes and models of vehicles, as long as they have the appropriate key blanks.
You can also call roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing keys for your car that have been lost and will usually be able to provide an alternative transponder. Certain insurance companies offer car key replacement as an option. However, the costs can still be high, especially when you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep an extra car key in a safe place and keep it readily available at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are concerned about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by a unauthorized person and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You may also file a formal police report that could aid in identifying the person who stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to guard yourself from theft. They're not just more secure than regular keys, but they also include features like trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car with just a tap on the fob. It is advisable to always keep a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose the keys to your car.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it requires longer and requires more effort. The blank for the key has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed in order that it is compatible with your car's security system. Locksmiths with the right tools and knowledge can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
Another option is to get a replacement key at the dealership. This is more expensive, but it is also more secure since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that will help to keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy your vehicle's identification number, which can be used to file an police report in case your vehicle is stolen.
In certain situations, you might have to take your new key to a dealership to be programmed. It is usually a simple procedure, but it could depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your key along with an acceptable photo identification along with an original registration or title of your vehicle so that the technician can verify your ownership.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob can cause problems. In these cases, you'll need a replacement to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. Many people have an extra car key.
Most of the time, when a key fob isn't working, it is because its battery has died. If the battery doesn't function, it could be necessary to replace the key fob. In this situation, it is best to take the key fob into an auto dealer. They'll have the equipment required to create the new key fob and can also reprogram it for your vehicle.
Keys naturally wear down as they use them but they can also be damaged in different ways. Accidents like dropping your key onto the hard surface or getting it stuck in a door could cause dents and cracked. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future.
A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and effectively, but you should only work with an expert. It's not recommended to try to repair damaged keys by yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or home.
Keep your keys in a secure place when not in use to avoid this problem. This will lower the risk of your key being lost or stolen, and it will also protect it from damage caused by elements. You should also consider investing in a case that protects your key to further protect it from weather or accidents. This can help to prevent your key from becoming worn down or even damaged completely.
Misplaced Keys
There are few things more annoying than losing your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most precious personal possession, no matter if they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch, or fell out of your pocket when you were walking your dog. If keys are the only way to get you to where you're going and it's an actual crisis.
Take a deep breath before you panic and try these tricks.
Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at a minimum, where you stored them last time. First, look for areas where they might have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then, you can shift to the next location. You might be surprised to find them in a location you never expected.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You will require this information in the future, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's manual.
If you have a spare key, reach for that one. Having a spare is one of the best things you can do to avoid losing your car keys. You may have put it in a convenient location at home, or even given it to a family member or roommate.
You can also call the police station in your town to see who has turned in a key. You can also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know who may have found your keys and be willing to return them to you.