The Main Issue With Replacement Car Key, And How You Can Solve It

How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or out of sight. But when they do, obtaining replacement keys isn't as difficult or expensive as it might seem.

It is common to obtain a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually on the title or registration certificate.

Lost Keys

It used to be a major inconvenience when you lost your car keys. You could just go to your local dealer and pay a small amount of money, and get a replacement key. With the advances in anti-theft and security for cars technology the process is no longer feasible. The process of replacing lost keys is more time-consuming and expensive.

The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequently used in modern vehicles, so they're cheaper to replace. You can determine the type of key you have in your car by looking 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 car. It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured by the manufacturer, and is located by checking the door jamb or washer fluid reservoir. It is also found in the owner's guide or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard.

Auto locksmiths are often able to help in the case of lost keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also contact an employee at the local hardware store to create copies of your car key. They are usually able to do this for all types and makes of vehicles in the event that they have the appropriate key blanks.

Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They will most likely be able assist you with the lost car key process and typically provide a new transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer car key replacement as an option. However, the costs can still be high, especially in the event of losing the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep the spare car key in a secure location and keep it available at all times.

Stolen Keys

Report the loss of your key immediately if you're worried about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You may also submit a police report which can be useful in identifying the person who took your key.

One of the best ways to guard yourself against theft is to buy an expensive, car-specific key fob. They're not just more secure than regular keys and keys, but they also include features such as trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car by pressing the fob. It is advisable to always keep an extra fob in your home in case you lose your car keys.

A key that's not an fob is still able to be replaced, but it will take longer and require more effort. The blank for the key has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed in order that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right equipment and expertise can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.

A replacement key is available at the dealer. 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 your vehicle's identification number, which is helpful for filing a police report if your car is ever stolen.

In some instances, you might need to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. 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, as well as a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can confirm your ownership.

Key Damage

If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and then starts it, a damaged key fob could cause issues. In these cases you'll require a replacement to ensure the key fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. Many people carry an additional car key.

Most of the time when a key fob isn't functioning, it's because its battery has died. If the battery isn't working, you may have to replace the key fob. In this instance, it is best to bring the key fob to a dealership. They'll have the equipment required to create the new key fob and will also reprogram it for your vehicle.

Keys are prone to wear and tear with use, but they can be damaged in a variety of ways too. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door can cause cracks and dents.  car key battery replacement  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 essential to hire a professional who is certified. It is not safe to fix damaged keys by yourself. This could cause further damage to your home or vehicle.

An effective way to prevent this type of problem is to keep your key in a secure location when not in use. This can reduce the risk of it being lost or stolen and also help protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. It is also recommended to invest in a protective case for your key to protect it from weather or accidents. This can help in preventing your key from wearing down or being completely damaged.

Keys that are misplaced

There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most precious personal possession, no matter if they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, tossed on the table in your kitchen while you ate lunch or fell out of your pocket while you were walking your dog. When the keys are your only means of getting to where you're going, it could be a true emergency.

Relax before you get stressed and try these tricks.

Make sure you check where you normally place your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or get lost underneath something, so take a look first in those areas. Then, you can move to the next spot. You may be surprised find them in a spot you'd never imagined.

Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle and its key number. You'll need this information later, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver's doorpost or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's guide.

If you have an extra key, reach for it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You may have hid it in a convenient place at home, or you might have given it to a roommate or family member.

You can also contact the police in your neighborhood to find out if they've turned in any keys. You can also inquire at your workplace or at school. You never know who may have found your keys and be willing to return them to you.