How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, in between cushions on couches or just out of sight altogether. However, when they do, obtaining an alternative isn't as difficult or costly as it may seem.
You can usually get a spare key by using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge hassle. You could simply go to your local dealer, pay a little bit of money, and get an alternative key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the procedure to replace the lost car key could be a lot more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of key you have will determine the cost. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys are not very popular in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. You can determine the type of key you have in your car by inspecting the key ring or by calling your dealer.
The next thing to do is determine the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs or windshield washer reservoir. It is also found 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 case of lost keys and are among the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also request an associate at your local hardware store to create copies of your car key. They are usually able to do this for most types and makes of vehicles in the event that they have the correct key blanks.
Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you with the replacement of the car key that was lost and will typically be able to provide an alternative transponder. Some insurance companies offer a replacement car key service as an add-on. The cost could be high especially in the event that you lose your electronic key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always have a spare key available and keep it in a safe location.
car key replacement of your key immediately if you are concerned about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key can't be used by an unauthorized person which could result in costly damage to your vehicle. This could result in scratches on the doors or the ignition and much more. You could also file a police report, which could be helpful in identifying whoever stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is among the best ways to protect yourself from theft. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, but also come with features like trunk release, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in case you lose your car keys.
It is possible to replace a key that isn't a fob, but it requires longer and requires more effort. The blank key has to be cut and the key programmed to connect with the security system of your vehicle. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who has the right tools and expertise however, it's typically more expensive than replacing your lost key fob.
Another option is to purchase an alternative key from the dealership. It will cost more but the dealer has special equipment to help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy the vehicle's identification number which can be used to file an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
In some cases you may need to take your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. This is usually a quick process, but it can vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and an acceptable photo identification as well as an original 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 doors and starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause problems. In these cases, you'll need a replacement to ensure that the fob can do its job. It's not common for smart keys to break and they have a short lifespan. Many people carry an additional car key.
When a key fob stops working, its battery is typically dead. If the battery doesn't work you might need to replace the key fob. In this instance, it is best to bring the key fob to the dealership. They'll have the tools needed to create an entirely new key fob. They can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys wear down with regular use, but they can also be damaged by many different factors. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door can cause cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use or even impossible to use.
A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and effectively, but you should only use an expert. It's not advisable to try to repair a broken key by yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or your home.
Store your key in a secure place when not in use to avoid this issue. This will lower the risk of your key being lost or stolen, and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to safeguard it from accidents and weather. This will stop your key from getting damaged or worn out.
Keys that are misplaced
There are few things more frustrating than losing your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal possession, no matter if they were thrown out of the supermarket by a child, left on the table in your kitchen as you ate lunch or fell out of your pockets while you were walking your dog. When your keys are the only way to get you where you need to go, it can become a real crisis.
But before you get scared, take a deep breath and try these suggestions:
Immediately check where you usually place your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Sometimes, they "drift" to the side or get lost underneath something, so take a look first in those areas. Then, you can shift to the next location. You might be surprised to discover them in a place you'd never imagined.
Note 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's doorpost or stamped on a steel plate in the dashboard. It's also included in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to keep a spare. You might have hidden it in a convenient place at your home, or you may have entrusted it to your roommate or a family member.
It is also a good idea to contact the police in your area to see whether they've handed over keys. It's not an ideal idea to inquire around at your workplace or school, too. You never know who might have found your keys, and be prepared to return them to you.