12 Companies Are Leading The Way In Replacement Car Key

How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Car keys are notorious for disappearing into couches, pockets or out of sight. However, when they do, getting an alternative isn't as difficult or expensive as it might appear.

You can usually get 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 just go to the 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 procedure to replace a lost car key can be a lot more costly and time consuming.

The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less frequently used in modern vehicles which is why they are less expensive to replace. You can determine the kind of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by calling your dealer.

The next thing you need to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. It is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is found on the door jambs or windshield washer reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard.

Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of a lost key and are among the quickest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also request an employee at your local hardware store to make copies of your car key. They are usually able to do this for the majority of kinds of automobiles provided they have the correct key blanks.

Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing keys for your car that have been lost and are usually capable of providing the transponder replacement key fobs for cars. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement for car replacement as an option. However, the cost could be quite high, particularly 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 secure location.

Stolen Keys

If you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen, it's important to report the key loss immediately. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by a unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and much more. You may also file a police report, which can be useful in identifying the person who took your key.

One of the best methods to safeguard yourself from theft is to invest in an expensive, car-specific key fob. These key fobs aren't only more secure, but they also include features such as trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit 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 keys.

A key that isn't an fob is still able to be replaced, but it will take longer and more effort. The key blank has to be cut and the key has to be programmed in order that it is compatible with the security system of your car. A locksmith who has the right tools and experience can do this, however it is typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.

Another option is to purchase an alternative key from the dealership. This will be more expensive however, it's a safer choice because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that can keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy your vehicle's ID number, which can be useful if you need to file an investigation in the event of a theft.

In some cases you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a straightforward procedure, but it could differ depending on the model of your car. Bring your key and a valid photo identification, along with a copy of the registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician is able to verify the ownership of your vehicle.

Key Damage

A damaged key fob could cause problems if you own an electronic car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the fob is able to perform its task. It's not common for smart keys to fail, and most have a limited life span. Many people carry an additional car key.

If a key fob ceases to function, the battery is usually dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if this doesn't work, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. In this instance, it is best to bring the key fob to a dealership. They will have all the tools needed to make an entirely new key fob and they can also reprogram your vehicle.

Keys naturally wear down as they use them but they can also be damaged in a variety of ways as well. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on an un-porous surface or securing it in a door can cause dents and cracked. These damages can make your key difficult to use, or impossible to use.

A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and easily however, it is important to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. It's not recommended to fix damaged keys by yourself. This could cause more damage to your house or car.

Store your key in a secure location when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chances of your key being stolen or lost and it will also protect it from damage caused by the elements. It is also recommended to invest in a protective case for your key to further shield it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from becoming worn down or damaged.

Keys that are misplaced

There are few things more frustrating than losing your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item, regardless of whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on your kitchen table while you ate lunch or slipped out of your pocket when you were walking your dog. When keys are the only means to get you where you're supposed to go, it can become a real crisis.

But before you get scared, take a deep breath, and try these suggestions:

Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at least where you kept them the last time. Check first for places in which they may have "drifted" or fallen under something. Then move to the next spot, and then on. You might be surprised to find them in a location you'd never imagined.

Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will require this information in the future, either to call your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also included in the owner's manual.

If you have a spare key, reach for that one. The possession of a spare key is among the best ways to prevent losing your car keys. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or you might have entrusted it to someone in your family or roommate.

You should also try calling the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've handed over keys. It's not good to ask for help at your work or school, too. You never know when someone has found your missing keys and is willing to give them back to you.