How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing in pockets, in between cushions on couches, or out of sight altogether. But when they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may seem.
You can often get a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually found on your title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It was an enormous hassle when you lost your car keys. You could go to the dealership and pay an amount and then get a new one. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing a lost key is now more time-consuming and expensive.
The type of key you have will determine the price. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys aren't as 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 car, which you will usually do by looking 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 vehicle. It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured and is located by checking the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir for fluid. It can also be located in the owner's guide or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can be helpful when you have a lost key and are among the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also contact an employee at the local hardware store to create a copy of your car key. They usually can do this for all kinds of automobiles in the event that they have the appropriate key blanks.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing keys for your car that have been lost and are usually able to provide the transponder replacement. Some car insurance providers even offer a car key replacement service as an added benefit. The costs can be high especially when you lose a digital key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always have an extra key on hand and keep it in a safe location.
Stolen Keys
If you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen, it's essential to report the loss immediately. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to costly damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also submit a police report which could be helpful in identifying whoever stole your key.
car key replacement remote of the most effective ways to guard yourself against theft is to purchase a high-quality, car-specific key fob. They are not just more secure than traditional keys, but they also come with features such as trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, 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 an extra fob in your home in the event that you lose your car 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 key must be cut, and the key programmed to work with your car's system of security. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who has the right tools and experience however, it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
Another option is to purchase an alternative key from the dealership. i thought about this is more expensive however, it's more secure since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will be able to duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which could be beneficial if you need to file an investigation in the event of a theft.
In some cases, you might need to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a straightforward procedure, but it can differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your keys and an acceptable photo identification and a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can confirm the ownership of your vehicle.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause problems. In these instances, you will need to replace the key fob for it to perform its purpose. It's not common for smart keys to fail, and most have a limited lifespan. Many people carry an extra car key.
Most of the time when a key fob isn't working, it's because the battery has failed. You can try replacing the battery, but if this doesn't work, you may have to replace the entire key fob instead. In this situation it is recommended to take the key fob into an auto dealer. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create a new key fob and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys will naturally wear away when used but they can also be damaged in various ways as well. Accidents such as dropping your key on an un-porous surface or getting it stuck in a door may cause dents and cracked. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future.
A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and efficiently, but it's important to hire a professional who is certified. It is not safe to fix damaged keys by yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or home.
Keep your keys in a secure location when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost, and will help to keep your key from becoming damaged by the elements. It is also recommended to invest in a protective case for your key to further protect it from weather or accidents. This will help prevent your key from getting damaged or worn out.
Keys that are lost Keys
It's a pain to lose your car keys. It doesn't matter if they were tossed by a child in the supermarket or placed on the table where you ate your lunch or left in your pockets while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal possession. If keys are the only means to get you where you're supposed to go and it's an emergency.
But before you get scared take a deep breath, and try these tips:
Make sure you check where you normally put your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Check first for places where they may have "drifted" or gotten lost under something. Then, move to the next location. You may be surprised to find them in places you didn't expect.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle and its key number. You'll need this information in order to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in the 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 a spare. It could be hidden in a convenient location at home, or you might have entrusted it to a roommate or family member.
You can also contact the police in your locality to inquire who has turned in keys. It's not good to ask for help at your work or school as well. You never know if someone has found your missing keys, and they might be willing to return them to you.