How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions or just completely out of sight. But if they do, getting a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may seem.
You can often get a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually on the title or registration certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a huge hassle. You could just go to the local dealer and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive an alternate key. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the process to replace a lost car key can be much more expensive and time-consuming.
The type of car key you are using is a major factor in the price you pay for an alternative. The older, basic metal "insert and turn" keys are not very popular in modern cars which is why they are more affordable to replace. You can identify the type of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by contacting your dealer.
The next thing to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or windshield washer reservoir. You can also find it in the owner's manual, or on a sticker located on the dashboard of the driver.
Auto locksmiths are often able to help in the event of losing keys, and they 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 the associate whether they are able to cut a duplicate copy of your key. They are usually able to do this for all kinds of automobiles provided they have the right key blanks.
You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to help you with the process of losing your car keys, and they can also generally provide a new transponder in the event that it is required. Some insurance companies offer car key replacement as an option. The costs can be high especially if you lose an electronic key fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a secure place and keep it readily available at any time.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you are worried about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person and could cause costly damage 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 file a formal police report that could help identify the person who took your key.
One of the most effective methods to safeguard yourself from theft is to buy a high-quality, car-specific key fob. These key fobs aren't only more secure, they also include features such as trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply tapping the fob. You should always have an extra fob at home in case you lose your car keys.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an fob, however it requires longer and more effort. The key blank has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed so that it works with the security system of your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and knowledge but it's generally more expensive than replacing your lost key fob.
A replacement key can be purchased from the dealer. It will cost more, but it is also a safer choice since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy of your vehicle's identification number, which is useful for filing an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.
In certain situations, you might have to take your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. This is typically a fast process, but it can vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key along with a valid photo identification, and a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can confirm your ownership.
Key Damage
If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and starts it, a damaged key fob could cause problems. In these cases you'll need replace the key fob for it to perform its purpose. It's not uncommon for smart keys to break, and most have a limited lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car keys.
When a key fob stops working, its battery is usually dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. In this case, it is best to bring the key fob to the dealership. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create a brand new key fob, and they can also reprogram your car.
Keys naturally wear down with use however, they can be damaged in various ways. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door can cause cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future.
A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently, but it's important to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. You should not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could cause more damage to your home or vehicle.
An effective way to prevent this type of problem is to keep your key in a secure place when it's not being used. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost and will also shield it from damage caused by the elements. Consider purchasing a protective 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 being completely damaged.
Misplaced Keys
It's difficult to lose your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most valuable personal item, regardless of whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on your kitchen table while you ate your lunch, or fell out of your pocket while you were walking the dog. If the keys are your only way to get to where you're going, it could be a true emergency.
But before you panic take a deep breath, and follow these steps:
Immediately check where you usually put your keys, or at least the last time you used them. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or get lost under something, so take a take a look first in those areas. Then, move to the next spot. You may be surprised to discover them in a place you didn't expect.
Note down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll require this information later on in order to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, grab it. Having a spare is one of the best things you can do to avoid losing your car keys. You may have hid it in a safe place at home, or you might have given it to your roommate or a family member.
You can also contact the police in your area to see if anyone has turned in a key. It's not an ideal idea to inquire for help at your work or school, too. You never know if someone has found your keys missing, and they might be willing to return them to you.