How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions or even out of sight altogether. When car replacement keys near me do, replacing keys isn't as costly or difficult as you may think. You can usually obtain a spare key by using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on your registration certificate or title 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 an alternate key. Not anymore, with today's advances in car security and anti-theft technology. The replacement of keys that have been lost is more costly and time-consuming. The type of car key you have is a significant aspect in the price you will pay for an alternative. The more basic insert and turn keys aren't common in modern vehicles which is why they are cheaper to replace. The first step is to determine what kind of key you have in your vehicle, which you will usually do by taking a look at the ring on your key or calling your dealer for specific instructions. The next thing you need to find is the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle manufactured by the manufacturer, and can be located by checking the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir of fluid. It can also be located in the owner's guide or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths can often help when you have lost keys, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask the associate if they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. As long as they have the correct key blanks, they will generally do it for the majority of vehicle models and manufactures. You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to assist you with the process of replacing your car key and will usually offer a replacement transponder if required. Some insurance companies provide a key replacement service as an additional benefit. However, the cost can be quite high, particularly when you lose a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep a spare car key in a secure location and keep it readily available at all times. Stolen Keys If you are worried about your car being stolen, it is important to report the key loss immediately. This will ensure that the key will not be used by an unauthorised person, which could lead to expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You can also file a police report to assist in identifying the person who stole your key. One of the most effective ways to guard yourself against theft is to invest in an expensive, car-specific key fob. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, they also come with features like trunk release, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply tapping the fob. It's always an ideal idea to have an extra key fob at home so that you're not stranded without your car should you lose your keys. A key that's not a fob can still be replaced however, it will require longer and require more effort. The blank of the key needs to be cut and the key needs to be programmed to ensure that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith with the right tools and experience can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. A replacement key is available from the dealer. It's more expensive but the dealer has special equipment that can help protect your car from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy of your vehicle's ID number, which could be beneficial if you need to file an official police report in the event of a theft. In some instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership in order to get it programmed to your vehicle. This is typically a fast procedure, but it could depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and an ID photo that is valid, as well as a copy of the 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 doors and opens it, a damaged key fob could cause problems. In these situations you'll need replace the key fob in order to ensure it is able to perform its function. Smart keys can break and only last a certain amount of time. Many people carry an additional car key. If a key-fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. If the battery doesn't function, it could be necessary to replace the key fob. In this situation it is recommended to take the key fob into a dealership. They'll have the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob, and can also reprogram your car. Keys are prone to wear and tear with use however, they can be damaged in various ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key on an un-porous surface or securing it in a door may cause cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key again. A locksmith can solve this problem quickly and easily however, it is important to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. You should not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause further damage to your vehicle or your home. A good way to prevent this kind of issue is to keep your keys in a secure place when it's not in use. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost and will also shield it from damage caused by the elements. It is also recommended to invest in a case that protects your key to protect it from accidents or weather. This will prevent your key from being worn down or damaged. Keys that are misplaced It's a pain to lose your car keys. It doesn't matter if they were tossed by a toddler in the supermarket or placed on the table where you ate lunch or left in your pockets while walking the dog, you're feeling like you've lost your most valuable personal possession. If keys are your only way to get to where you're headed, it could be a real emergency. Relax before you panic, and try these tips. Check where you normally keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them last time. Check first for places in which they may have drifted or fallen under something. Then move to the next area, and then on. You might 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-side door post or stamped on a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also included in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, reach for that one. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep a spare. You might have hid it in a convenient location at home or handed it to a roommate or family member. You can also contact the police in your area to see if they've turned in any keys. It's not a bad idea to ask around at your workplace or at school, too. You never know who might have stumbled across your keys and be willing to return them.
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