How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing in pockets, between couch cushions or even out of sight completely. If they do, replacing them isn't nearly as difficult or expensive as you think.
You can usually find an extra key using your vehicle identification (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It was a major inconvenience when you lost your car keys. You could simply visit your local dealer, pay a little bit of money, and get a replacement key. With the advancements in anti-theft as well as car security technology it is no longer an option. The replacement of keys that have been lost is more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of car key you have is a significant element in the price you have to pay for the replacement. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequently used in modern vehicles which is why they are less expensive to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle, which you typically do by checking the ring on your key or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
Next, you will need to know your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique code that is assigned to every vehicle produced and can be located by checking the door jamb, or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of lost keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. 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 the majority of types and makes of vehicles provided they have the right key blanks.
Another option is to call roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to help you with the process of replacing your car key, and they can also generally offer a replacement transponder if required. Some insurance companies offer a car key replacement service as an added benefit. The cost could be high, particularly if you lose an electronic key fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it available at all times.
Stolen Keys
If you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen, it is essential to report the loss right away. This will help to ensure that the key isn't used by unauthorized people that could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition or door, as well as scratches and more. You can also make a police report which could be helpful in identifying whoever stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to protect yourself against theft. These are not only more secure than regular keys and keys, but they also include features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by pressing the fob. It is advisable to always keep an extra fob at home in case you lose the keys to your car.
A key that's not an actual fob can be replaced however it will require longer and require more effort. The blank key has to be cut and then the key programmed to connect with your car's system of security. A locksmith with the right equipment and expertise can do this, however it is typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
Another option is to get an alternative key from the dealership. It will cost more, but it is also more secure because the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can keep your car from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of the vehicle's identification number which can be used to file an police report in case your car is ever stolen.
In some cases, you might need to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. This is typically a fast procedure, however it may depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo identification, as well as a copy of the registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can verify the ownership of your vehicle.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob can cause problems if you have an electronic car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these instances you'll need to replace the key fob to ensure it is able to perform its job. It's not common for smart keys to fail and they have a short 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 could try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. replacement key for a car will have the equipment needed to make an entirely new key fob. They can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys wear out over time with regular use, but can also be damaged due to many different factors. Accidents such as dropping your keys on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door could cause cracks and dents. These damage can make your keys difficult to use, or impossible to use.
A locksmith can resolve this problem quickly and efficiently however, you should use an experienced locksmith. You should not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause more damage to your house or car.
Keep your keys in a secure location when not in use to avoid this problem. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost and it will also protect it from damage caused by elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help keep it safe from damage and weather. This can help in preventing your key from wearing down or damaged completely.
Keys that are lost Keys
There are few things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most valuable personal item, whether they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, left on your kitchen table as you ate lunch, or fell out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. When keys are the only means to get you to where you're going, it can become a real crisis.
Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tricks.
Find out where you usually keep your keys or at the very least, where you kept them the last time. Look first in the places in which they may have "drifted" or been lost under something. Next, move to the next spot. You might be surprised to find them in a spot you'd never imagined.
Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need to know this information in order to call your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN is located on the driver-side door post or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in your owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, reach for it. The possession of a spare key is among the most effective things you can do to ensure that you don't lose your car keys. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or have given it to your roommate or a family member.
You should also try calling the police in your neighborhood to find out if they've turned in any keys. You can also inquire at your workplace or school. You never know who could have stumbled across your keys and be prepared to return them to you.