How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are notorious for disappearing in pockets, couches or out of sight. When they do, relocating them isn't as expensive or difficult as you may think.
You may be able to get a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually located on your registration or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. You could visit the dealership, pay an amount and then get a new one. Not anymore, with today's advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing keys that have been lost is more costly and time-consuming.
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 and therefore are more expensive to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle. You typically do by taking a look at the ring on your key or 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 can be found by checking the door jamb or washer reservoir for fluid. It can also be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker located on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths can often help when you have a lost key, and they are among the quickest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask a staff member whether they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. They usually can do this for the majority of types and makes of vehicles, as long as they have the right key blanks.
Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to assist you with the process of losing your car keys, and they can also usually offer a replacement transponder if required. Some insurance companies offer car key replacement as an option. However, the cost could still be high, especially in the event of losing a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to prevent this is to always have an extra key in your possession and keep it in a safe place.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you're worried about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by an unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your car. This could result in scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also file an official police report that could assist in identifying the person who stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself against theft. They are not just more secure than traditional keys, but they also come with 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. You should always have a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose your car keys.
It is possible to replace a key that's not a fob, but it takes longer and more effort. The key blank has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed in order that it works with the security system of your car. A locksmith with the right tools and knowledge can do this, however it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
A replacement key is available at the dealer. This will be more expensive, but it is also more secure since the dealer has access to specialized equipment that can help keep your car from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of the identification number of your vehicle, which is useful for filing a police report if your vehicle is stolen.
In some cases you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a simple process, but can vary depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your key and an ID with a valid photo and an original copy of your vehicle's title or registration so that the technician knows you are the owner.
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 fob in order to allow it to fulfill its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. car key replacements carry an extra car key.
The majority of the time, when a key fob isn't working, it's due to its battery dying. You could try replacing the battery, but if this isn't working, you might have to replace the entire key fob instead. In this case it is recommended to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have the tools needed to make a new key fob and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys are prone to wear and tear when used, but they can be damaged in a variety of ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door can result in cracks and scratches. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and effectively however, you should employ an expert. Do not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This can cause further damage to your home or vehicle.
An effective way to prevent this kind of issue is to keep your key in a secure place when not in use. This can lower the likelihood of it being lost or stolen and help keep your key from becoming damaged by outside elements. It is also recommended to invest in a case to protect your key to further protect it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from wearing down or even damaged completely.
Keys that are lost Keys
There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most precious personal item, whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. If keys are the only way to get you to where you're going it can turn into a real crisis.
Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tricks.
Check where you normally keep your keys, or at least where you kept them the last time. Sometimes, they "drift" to the side or get lost beneath something, so make sure to take a look first in those areas. Next, move to the next spot. You might be amazed to find them in a place you'd never imagined.
Note down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need to know this information in order to contact your locksmith or dealer. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a steel plate that is on the dashboard. It's also found in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, take it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to have a spare. You may have hidden it in a convenient location at home or handed it to your roommate or a family member.
You can also contact the police in your neighborhood to find out if they've turned in keys. You can also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know who may have found your keys, and be prepared to return them.