How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or out of sight. But if they do, getting an alternative isn't as difficult or costly as it may appear.
You can usually find a spare key using your vehicle identification (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be an enormous hassle when you lost your car keys. You could go to your local dealer and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive a replacement key. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing keys that have been lost is more expensive and time-consuming.
The kind of key you have will determine the cost. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys aren't popular in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. The first step is to determine the type of key you have in your car, which you typically do by looking at the ring on your key or calling your dealer for specific instructions.
Next, you will need to find the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique code that is assigned to every vehicle that is made and can be found by looking at the door jamb or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker under the driver's dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of losing keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also ask an employee at the local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. If they have the right key blanks, they will generally do it for the majority of automobile models and brands.
Another option is to call roadside assistance. They'll likely be able assist you with the process of losing your car keys and generally offer a replacement transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer a car key replacement service as an additional benefit. However, the costs can be quite high, particularly if you lose a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it at any time.
Stolen Keys
If you are concerned about your car being stolen, it's crucial to report the loss as soon as you notice it. This will help to ensure that the key isn't used by unauthorized people and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and much more. You can also file a police report that may assist in identifying the person who stole your key.
A premium car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to guard yourself against theft. These are not only more secure than standard keys, but they also come with features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. It's always recommended to keep an extra key fob home so that you're not stranded without your car in the event that you lose your keys.
A key that isn't an fob is still able to be replaced, but it will take more work and time. The blank key has to be cut and then the key programmed to connect with the security system of your vehicle. A locksmith who has the right tools and knowledge is able to do this, but it is typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key can be purchased from the dealer. This is more expensive however it is an option that is safer because the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can help keep your car from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy the vehicle's identification number which is helpful for filing an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
In some cases you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to get it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a straightforward procedure, but it can differ according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo ID and a copy of your car's registration or title 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 starts your vehicle. In these situations you'll need replace the key fob in order to allow it to fulfill its purpose. Smart keys can break and last only a short time. This is why many people have a spare car keys.
If a key fob stops working, its battery is usually dead. You can try replacing the battery, but if that doesn't work, you may have to replace the entire key fob. In this situation, it is best to bring the key fob to an auto dealer. They'll have all the necessary equipment to create a new key fob, and also reprogram your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away with use however, they can be damaged in various ways too. Accidents such as dropping your keys on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door can cause dents and cracks. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can fix the issue quickly and effectively, but you should only employ a professional. It is not advisable to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This can cause more damage to your home or car.
Place your key in a safe place when not in use to avoid this problem. 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 can help in preventing your key from wearing down or damaged completely.
Keys are missing Keys
It's difficult to lose your car keys. It doesn't matter if they were tossed by a child in the grocery store, placed on the table where you had lunch or left in your pockets while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most precious personal possession. If keys are the only means to get you to where you need to go, it can become a real crisis.
But before you panic take a deep breath, and follow these steps:
Find out where you usually keep your keys or at least where you kept them the last time. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to look in those places first. Then, you can move to the next location. replacement key for a car might be surprised to find them in a location you didn't expect.
Write down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll require this information later on or to contact your dealer or a locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or stamped on a metal plate that is on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, you should grab it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You might have hidden 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 handed over keys. You could also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know if someone has found your keys missing and might be willing to return them to you.