How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Car keys are known for disappearing in pockets, couches or even out of sight. But when they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may seem.

You can usually find a spare key using your vehicle identification number (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate.

Lost Keys

It used to be that losing your car keys was a major inconvenience. You could just visit your local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive an alternative key. With the advancements in anti-theft and car security technology, this is no longer an option. The process to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be a lot more costly and time consuming.

The kind of key you have will determine the price. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less common in modern vehicles, so they're 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 contacting your dealer.

The next thing you need to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. It is a unique car identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or the windshield washer reservoir. You can also find it in the owner's guide or on a sticker located beneath the driver's dashboard.

Auto locksmiths are often able to help in the case of lost keys, and they are among the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also ask an employee at the local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. If they have the right key blanks, they'll generally do it for all car models and brands.

You can also call roadside assistance. They will most likely be able assist you with the process of replacing your car key, and they can also usually offer a replacement transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer a replacement car key service as an added benefit. However, the cost can still be expensive, especially if you lose the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to avoid this is to always have an extra key in your possession and keep it in a safe 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 misused by unauthorised people, which could result in costly damages to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also make a police report which can be useful in identifying whoever took your key.

One of the most effective ways to guard yourself against theft is to invest in a top-quality, car-specific fob. These key fobs are not only more secure, they also have features like trunk releases remote car key replacement (More Signup bonuses) engine starts and proximity systems, which allow you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in case you lose your car key cover replacement keys.

A key that's not an actual fob can be replaced however, it will require longer and more effort. The blank key must be cut, and the key programmed to connect with the security system in your car. A locksmith who has the right tools and experience can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing a 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 specialized equipment that can keep your car from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of your vehicle's identification number, which is helpful for filing an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen.

In certain instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership in order to have it programmed to your vehicle. This is usually a quick process, but it can vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key along with an ID photo that is valid, 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

If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and opens it, a damaged key fob can cause problems. In these cases you'll need to replace the key fob to allow it to fulfill its purpose. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. Many people have an additional car key.

When a key fob stops working, its battery is typically dead. If the battery doesn't work 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 dealership. They'll have all the necessary equipment to create a new key fob, and can also reprogram your vehicle.

Keys will naturally wear away with use but they can also be damaged in different ways too. Accidents such as dropping your keys on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door could cause cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again.

A locksmith can fix this issue quickly and easily, but it's important to hire a professional who is certified. It is not advisable to repair a damaged key yourself. This can result in further damage to your car key button replacement or your home.

Keep your keys in a secure location when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chances of your key being lost or stolen, and also protect it from damage caused by elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help safeguard it from accidents and weather. This will help prevent your key from getting damaged or worn down.

Keys that are lost Keys

There are few things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. Whether they were dropped by a child in the supermarket, placed on the table where you ate your lunch or left in your pocket while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most valuable personal item. If your keys are the only way to get you to where you need to go, it can become a real crisis.

Relax before you get stressed and try these tricks.

Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at a minimum, where you stored them the last time. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or get lost beneath something, so make sure to check those spots first. Then, move to the next location and then on. You may be surprised to find them in a place you'd never imagined.

Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information later, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver-side door post or stamped on a metal plate that is located on the dashboard. It's also found in your owner's manual.

If you have an extra key, you should grab it. A spare key is among the best ways to prevent losing your car keys. You might have hid it in a convenient location at home or handed it to your roommate or a family member.

You can also call the police in your area to see whether anyone has handed in keys. It's not a bad idea to ask about your workplace or school, too. You never know when someone has found your missing keys and is willing to return them to you.