How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. When they do, replacing keys isn't as costly or difficult as you think.
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 huge inconvenience. You could simply go to the local dealership, pay a little bit of money, and receive an alternative key. With the advances in anti-theft as well as car security technology the process is no longer an option. The process of replacing lost keys is more time-consuming and expensive.
The type of car key that you have is an important aspect in the price you have to pay for the replacement. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequently used in modern vehicles, so they're cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle. You can usually do by checking your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
The next thing to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique code that is assigned to each vehicle that is made and can be located by looking at the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir for fluid. It can also be located in the owner's manual, or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of losing keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also ask an employee at the local hardware store to make copies of your car key. They usually can do this for most kinds of automobiles in the event that they have the correct key blanks.
You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able to assist you with the process of replacing your car key and usually provide a new transponder if required. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an option. The cost could be high particularly if you lose an electronic key fob. It is best to keep an extra car key in a safe location and to have it available at all times.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you're worried about your car being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key is not misused by unauthorised people, which could result in costly damages to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also make a police report which may be useful in identifying who stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is among the best ways to guard yourself against theft. They are not just more secure than standard keys however, they also have features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob at home so that you're not stranded without your car if you lose your keys.
It is possible to replace a key that isn't an actual fob, but it requires longer and more effort. The blank key must be cut and then the key programmed to work with the security system in your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith with the right tools and experience, but it's usually more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key can be purchased at the dealer. It will cost more however, the dealer will have special equipment that can help protect your car from being taken. The dealer will also have a copy your vehicle's identification number, which is useful for filing an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
In certain instances, you might require taking your new key to a dealership to be programmed. This is usually a quick process, but it can vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and an acceptable photo ID, and an original copy of your vehicle's registration or title so that the technician can verify that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob can cause problems if you own a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these instances you'll need to replace the key fob for it to perform its purpose. It's not uncommon for smart keys to break and they have a limited lifespan. Many people carry an additional car key.
If a key fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if this doesn't work, you may need to replace the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's best to take your car key fob to a dealer. They will have the equipment needed to create the new key fob and can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away as they use them however, they can be damaged in various ways as well. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door could cause cracks and dents. These damage can make your keys difficult to use or even impossible.
car replacement key can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently but it's essential to use a qualified professional. It's not recommended to fix a broken key by yourself. This can cause more damage to your home or vehicle.
Store your key in a secure place when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chances of your key being stolen or lost, and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. You should also think about investing in a case that protects your key to protect it from accidents or weather. This can help to prevent your key from being worn down or being completely damaged.
Keys that are misplaced
It's a pain to lose your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most valuable personal possession, no matter if they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, left on the table in your kitchen as you ate lunch or slipped out of your pockets while you were walking your dog. If the keys are your only way to get to where you're headed, it could be a true emergency.
But before you panic take a deep breath, and try these suggestions:
Check immediately where you typically put your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or are lost underneath something, so take a look first in those areas. Then move on to the next spot, and then on. You may be surprised to find them in a place you never expected.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You'll require this information later on, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped on a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, you should grab it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to have an extra. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or you might have entrusted it to a roommate or family member.
You can also contact the police station in your town to inquire if anyone has turned in a key. You can also inquire at your workplace or at school. You never know who could have found your keys, and be willing to return them.