How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are notorious for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. When they do, replacing keys isn't as difficult or expensive as you think.
You can usually obtain a spare key using your vehicle identification number (VIN) found on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It was an enormous hassle when you lost your car keys. You could visit your local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive an alternative key. No longer, thanks to the latest advances in car security and anti-theft technology. Now, the procedure to replace a lost car key can be more costly and time-consuming.
The kind of car key you have is an important aspect in the cost you be charged for an alternative. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys aren't very popular in modern cars which is why they are cheaper to replace. You can determine the type of key that is in your car by inspecting the key ring, or by contacting your dealer.
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 is located by looking at the door jamb, or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also available in the owner's guide or on a sticker located on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths are often able to help in the case of lost keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask a staff member whether they can make a duplicate of your key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they will generally do it for the majority of vehicle models and brands.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They can assist you with the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will typically be able to provide the transponder replacement. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. However, the costs can still be high, especially in the event of losing the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep a spare key available and keep it in a secure place.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are worried about your vehicle being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key will not be used by anyone who is not authorized, which could result in costly damages to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and more. You may also submit a police report which could be helpful in identifying the person who took your key.
One of the most effective things you can do to protect yourself from theft is to purchase an expensive, car-specific key fob. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, but they also come with features like trunk release, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your car by simply tapping the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob home so that you're not left without your car if you lose your keys.
A key that isn't a fob can still be replaced however, it will require longer and require more effort. The blank key must be cut and then the key programmed to work with your car's system of security. A locksmith with the right tools and experience is able to do this, but it's usually more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.
A replacement key is available at the dealership. It will cost more however, the dealer will have special equipment to help prevent your car from being taken. The dealership will also have a copy the identification number of your vehicle, which is useful for filing an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
In certain instances, you might require taking your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. This is typically a fast procedure, but it could depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and a valid photo ID and the original of your car's registration or title so that the technician can verify that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
If you have a smart key that locks your car's doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure the key fob can perform its function. It's not unusual for smart keys to break, and most have a short lifespan. This is why many people have a spare car key.
Most of the time, when a key fob isn't working, it's due to its battery dying. If the battery doesn't function, you may have to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealer. They will have all the tools needed to make an entirely new key fob and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys wear down with regular use, but they can also be damaged due to many different factors. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door could cause cracks and scratches. These damage can make your keys difficult to use or impossible.
A locksmith can fix this problem quickly and efficiently however, you should use an expert. It is not advisable to repair a damaged key yourself. This could cause further damage to your vehicle or your home.
Place your key in a secure place when not in use to avoid this issue. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost, and will help to keep your key from getting damaged by the elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help safeguard it from accidents and weather. This can help in preventing your key from becoming worn down or being completely damaged.
Keys that are misplaced
It's frustrating to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a child in the supermarket or placed on the table where you ate lunch or even slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal item. If keys are the only way to get you to where you're supposed to go and it's an emergency.
Take a deep breath before you panic, and try these suggestions.
Make sure you check where you normally put your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Sometimes, they "drift" to the side or get lost beneath something, so make sure to look in those places first. Then move on to the next location and so on. You may be surprised to find them in a location you'd never imagined.
Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You'll need this information in order to call your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN can be found on the driver's side of the door or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. You can also locate 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 keep a spare. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or have entrusted it to someone in your family or roommate.
You can also contact the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've surrendered keys. It's not good to ask around at your workplace or school, too. You never know who could have found your keys, and be willing to return them to you.