How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are notorious for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. However, when they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or expensive as it might seem.
You can usually obtain a spare key by using your vehicle identification number (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. You could just visit your local dealership and pay a small amount of money, and receive a replacement key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process to replace a lost car key can be more costly and time consuming.
The type of car key that you have is an important factor in the price you be charged for the replacement. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequent in modern cars and therefore are more expensive to replace. You can identify the type of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by contacting your dealer.
The next thing to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle that is made by the manufacturer, and can be found by looking at the door jamb or washer reservoir for fluid. It is also available in the owner's guide or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of lost keys and are among the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask the associate whether they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. As long as they have the correct key blanks, they'll generally do it for the majority of vehicle models and makes.
You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing a lost car key and are usually capable of providing a replacement transponder. Certain insurance companies offer car key replacement as an optional service. The cost can be expensive particularly in the event that you lose your electronic key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep an extra key in your possession and keep it in a secure place.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key will not be used by anyone who is not authorized and could cause expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in scratches on the doors or the ignition and much more. You may also file a formal police report to assist in identifying the person who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is among the best ways to guard yourself from theft. They are not just more secure than traditional keys, but they also include features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. It's always recommended to keep an extra key fob home so that you are not stranded without your car should you lose your keys.
A key that's not an fob is still able to be replaced however it will require longer and require more effort. The blank of the key needs to be cut and the key needs to be programmed so that it can be used with the security system of your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who has the right tools and expertise but it's generally more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key is available at the dealer. This will be more expensive, but it is also more secure since the dealer has access to special equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy the vehicle's identification number which is helpful for filing an police report in case your car is ever stolen.
In certain instances, you might have to take your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. key replacement car 's usually a simple procedure, but it can differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your key along with a valid photo ID and a copy of your car's title or registration so that the technician knows you are the owner.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob can cause issues if you've got an electronic car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations, you will need to replace the key fob for it to perform its function. Smart keys can break and only last a certain amount of time. Many people carry an additional car key.
The majority of the time, when a key-fob isn't working, it is due to its battery dying. You can try replacing the battery, but if that doesn't work, you may 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 necessary to create a new key fob, and also reprogram your vehicle.
Keys wear down with regular use, but they can also be damaged due to many different factors. Accidents such as dropping your key onto a hard surface or securing it in a door can cause dents and cracked. These damages can make your key difficult to use, or impossible to use.
A locksmith can resolve this problem quickly and easily, but it's important to use a qualified professional. Do not attempt to repair a damaged key yourself. This can cause more damage to your home or vehicle.
Keep your keys in a secure location when not in use to avoid this problem. This can lower the likelihood of it being lost or stolen and also help protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. You should also think about investing in a case that protects your key to protect it from weather or accidents. This will stop your key from being damaged or worn down.
Keys that are lost
There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. If they were dropped by a child at the supermarket, placed on the table where you had lunch or even slipped out of your pocket while walking your dog, you're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item. When your keys are the only way to get you to where you're going, it can become an actual crisis.
But before you panic, take a deep breath, and try these suggestions:
Check immediately where you typically place your keys, or at the very least the last time you had them. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or are lost under something, so take a take a look first in those areas. Then, you can move to the next spot. You may be surprised find them in a location you didn't expect.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as its key number. You'll need this information in order to call your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN can be found on the driver's side of the door or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual.
If you have a spare key, reach to it. The possession of a spare key is among the best options to avoid losing your car keys. You may have hidden it in a safe place at home, or even given it to a family member or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your area to find out if anyone has turned in a key. It's not good to ask for help at your work or school as well. You never know who may have found your keys and be prepared to return them to you.