How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys have a habit of disappearing from pockets, between couch cushions or even out of sight completely. But when they do, obtaining an alternative isn't as difficult or expensive as it might appear.
You can usually get a spare key using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. automotive car key replacement could go to the local dealer and pay a small amount of money, and receive an alternative key. With the advancements in anti-theft and car security technology, this is no longer possible. The process to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be much more expensive and time consuming.
The type of car key that you are using is a major element in the price you pay for the replacement. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequent in modern cars which is why they are less expensive to replace. You can determine the type of key that is in your car by looking 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. It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured by the manufacturer, and is located by inspecting the door jamb or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of losing keys, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also contact an associate at the local hardware store to create a copy of your car key. They can usually do this for most makes and models of vehicles provided they have the appropriate key blanks.
Another option is to call roadside assistance. They can assist you in the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will typically be capable of providing the transponder replacement. Some insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an option. The costs can be high particularly in the event that you lose your electronic key fob. It is recommended to keep a spare car key in a safe place and keep it at any time.
Stolen Keys
If you're worried about your vehicle being stolen, it is important to report the key loss as soon as you notice it. automotive car key replacement will ensure that the key will not be used by unauthorized people and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You could also submit a police report which could be helpful in identifying the person who stole your key.
One of the most effective methods to guard yourself against theft is to invest in a top-quality, car-specific fob. These key fobs aren't only more secure, but they also have features like trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car with simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose your car keys.
A key that's not an actual fob can be replaced however, it will require longer and more effort. The blank for the key has to be cut and the key has to be programmed in order that it can be used with your car's security system. Locksmiths with the right tools and experience can do this, but it is typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key can be purchased at the dealership. It will cost more, but the dealer has specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being taken. The dealer will also have a copy of the identification number of your vehicle, which can be used to file an police report in case your vehicle is stolen.
In certain situations, you might need to take your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. It is usually a simple procedure, but it could differ depending on the model of your car. Bring your key along with an acceptable photo identification and a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician is able to verify your ownership.
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 instances you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the fob can perform its function. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail and they have a short lifespan. Many people have an additional car key.
If a key-fob ceases to function, the battery is typically dead. You can try replacing the battery, but if that fails, you may need to replace the entire key fob instead. In this case it is recommended to bring the key fob to an auto dealer. They'll have the tools needed to make a new key fob, and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys will naturally wear away when used however, they can be damaged in various ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key on the hard surface or securing it in a door may result in cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future.
A locksmith can fix the issue quickly and efficiently but it's essential to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. Do not attempt to repair a damaged key yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or home.
One way to avoid this type of problem is to store your key in a secure location when not in use. This will decrease the chance of your key being lost or stolen, and also protect it from damage caused by elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to safeguard it from accidents and weather. This will prevent your key from being worn down or damaged.
Keys are missing Keys
It's frustrating to lose your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item, regardless of whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on the kitchen table as you ate lunch or slipped out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. If your keys are the only way to get you where you're going, it can become an actual crisis.
Relax before you panic, and try these tricks.
Examine where you typically keep your keys, or at a minimum, where you stored them last time. Check first for places where they may have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then, move to the next location and so on. You may be surprised discover them in a place you'd never imagined.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle and its key number. You'll require this information in the future in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped on a metal plate that is located on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, go to it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You may have hid it in a convenient place at home, or have entrusted it to a roommate or family member.
You can also contact the police in your area to find out whether anyone has handed in the key. It's not good to ask about your workplace or school, too. You never know when someone has found your keys missing and is willing to give them back to you.