How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing in pockets, under couch cushions or just out of sight altogether. If they do, replacing them isn't as difficult or expensive as you think.
You can usually obtain an extra key using your vehicle identification number (VIN), located on your registration certificate 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 get a new key. With the advancements in anti-theft and car security technology, this is no longer feasible. The process of replacing a lost key is now more expensive and time-consuming.
The type of car key you have is an important factor in the price you pay for a replacement. The more basic "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. You can determine the kind of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring, or by calling your dealer.
car key replacement cost need to find is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. This is a unique code that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured and can be found by looking at the door jamb or washer fluid reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker located on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths can be helpful in the case of a lost key and are among the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they are able to cut you a copy of your key. As long as they have the appropriate key blanks, they'll generally do it for the majority of automobile models and makes.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to help you with the process of replacing your car key and usually offer a replacement transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer a car key replacement service as an additional benefit. However, the cost can still be high, especially if you lose the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a secure location and keep it readily available at all times.
Stolen Keys
If you are worried about your vehicle being stolen, it is important to report the key loss right away. This will ensure that the key will not be used by an unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your car. This can include scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and much more. You could also file a police report, which could be helpful in identifying who took your key.
A high-quality car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to guard yourself against theft. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, but they also have features like trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which allow you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. You should always have an extra fob at home in case you lose the keys to your car.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it takes more time and effort. The blank for the key has to be cut and the key has to be programmed so that it is compatible with your car's security system. This can be accomplished by a locksmith with the right tools and experience, but it's usually more expensive than replacing your lost key fob.
A replacement key can be purchased at the dealership. It's more expensive however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which could be helpful if you have to file a police report in the event of theft.
In some cases you may have to take your new key to a dealer to be programmed. It is usually a simple procedure, but it could depend on the particular 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 is able to verify your ownership.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob could cause issues if you've got an electronic car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations you'll require a replacement to ensure that the fob is able to perform its task. It's not common for smart keys to break and they have a limited life span. This is why many people carry a spare car key.
Most of the time when a key fob doesn't working, it is because the battery has failed. If the battery isn't working, you might need to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's best to bring the car key fob to a dealer. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create a new key fob and also reprogram your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away as they use them however, they can be damaged in a variety of ways. Accidents such as dropping your key onto an un-porous surface or securing it in a door may result in cracks and dents. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can resolve this issue quickly and easily, but it's important to use a qualified professional. It's not recommended to try to repair the broken key on your own. This could result in further damage to your vehicle or your home.
An effective way to prevent this type of problem is to store your key in a safe place when it's not in use. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost and also help keep your key from becoming damaged by elements outside. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to keep it safe from damage and weather. This will help prevent your key from being worn down or even damaged completely.
Misplaced Keys
There aren't many things more frustrating than losing your car keys. It doesn't matter if they were tossed by a toddler in the supermarket, placed on the table where you ate your lunch or left in your pocket while walking your dog, you feel as if you've lost your most precious personal item. When keys are the only way to get where you're going, it can be a real emergency.
Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tricks.
Check where you normally keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them last time. Check first for places where they might have "drifted" or been lost under something. Then, shift to the next location. You may be surprised to discover them in places you didn't expect.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You will need to know this information to contact your locksmith or dealer. You can find your VIN on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to have an extra. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or you might have given it to someone in your family or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your area to see whether they've surrendered any keys. It's not a bad idea to ask for help at your work or school, too. You never know if someone has discovered your missing keys and might be willing to give them back to you.