How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing from pockets, in between cushions on couches or just out of sight altogether. If they do, replacing them isn't nearly as difficult or expensive as you may think.
You can usually obtain an extra key using your vehicle identification number (VIN) found on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It was the case that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. You could go to the dealership and pay the small amount and get a new key. With the advances in anti-theft as well as car security technology it is no longer feasible. Today, the process to replace a lost car key can be more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of car key you have is an important factor in the price you pay for an alternative. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys aren't as frequently used in modern vehicles, so they're cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle. You will usually do by taking a look at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
The next step is to know the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be located in the owner's manual, or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of a lost key and are one of the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask an associate if they can make a duplicate of your key. They can usually do this for most makes and models of vehicles provided they have the appropriate key blanks.
Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able assist you with the process of replacing your car key, and they can also generally provide a new transponder in the event that it is needed. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. The cost could be high, particularly when you lose a digital key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key in your possession and keep it in a safe location.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are worried about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to expensive damage to your car. This could include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You can also make a police report which may be useful in identifying whoever took your key.
One of the most effective things you can do to protect yourself from theft is to invest in an expensive, car-specific key fob. They are not just more secure than regular keys, but they also come with features such as trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. Always keep an extra fob in your home in case you lose the keys to your car.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an fob, however it requires longer and more effort. The blank key must be cut, and the key programmed to function with your car's system of security. A locksmith who has the right tools and knowledge can do this, however it is typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
A replacement key is available at the dealer. It's more expensive, but the dealer has specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which could be useful if you need to submit an official police report in the event of a theft.
In some instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and have it programmed to your vehicle. It is usually a simple procedure, however it may vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key, a valid photo ID and the original of your car's title or registration so that the technician can verify that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
If you have an electronic key that locks your car doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause problems. In these instances you'll need to replace the key to ensure the key fob can perform its function. cheap key replacement car 's not common for smart keys to fail and have a limited lifespan. Many people have an additional car key.
If a key fob ceases to function, the battery is usually dead. If the battery doesn't function, you might need to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually best to take your car key fob to a dealer. They'll have the equipment required to create the new key fob and can also reprogram it for your vehicle.
Keys naturally wear down when used however, they can be damaged in different ways too. Inaccidents such as dropping your keys on an un-porous surface or securing it in a door can cause dents and cracked. These damages can make your key difficult to use or impossible.
A locksmith can resolve this problem quickly and efficiently however, you should employ an expert. It is not advisable to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or home.
A good way to prevent this kind of issue is to store your key in a secure location when not in use. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost and also help keep your key from getting damaged by the elements. It is also recommended to invest in a protective case for your key to protect it from weather and accidents. This will help prevent your key from being damaged or worn down.
Keys are missing Keys
There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. It doesn't matter if they were tossed by a child in the grocery store or left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch, or slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most important personal item. If your keys are the only means to get you to where you need to go and it's an emergency.
But before you get scared, take a deep breath and try these suggestions:
Check where you normally keep your keys, or at least where you kept them the last time. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or end up under something, so take a take a look first in those areas. Then move on to the next location and so on. You may be surprised to discover them in a place you never expected.
Write down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information to contact your dealer or locksmith. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side door post or stamped on a steel plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in your owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, take it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep a spare. You might have hid it in a convenient location at home or handed it to a family member or roommate.
You can also call the police in your locality to inquire who has turned in the key. You can also inquire at your school or workplace. You never know who could have found your keys and be willing to return them to you.