10 Tell-Tale Signs You Must See To Find A New Replacement Car Key
How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, in between cushions on couches or even out of sight completely. If they do, replacing them isn't nearly as difficult or expensive as you might think.
You can usually find an extra key using your vehicle identification (VIN) found on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It was the case that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. You could go to your local dealer and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive a replacement key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing keys that have been lost is more expensive 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 and therefore are more expensive to replace. You can identify the type of key in your car by inspecting the key ring, or by contacting your dealer.
The next thing 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 and can be found by looking at the door jamb or washer fluid reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's manual, or on a sticker under the driver's dashboard.
Auto locksmiths can be helpful in the case of a lost key and 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 can cut you a copy of your key. They usually can do this for most types and makes of vehicles provided they have the appropriate key blanks.
You can also contact roadside assistance. They can help you with the replacement of the car key that was lost and will typically be capable of providing the transponder replacement. Certain insurance companies provide car key replacement as an option. The costs can be high particularly when you lose a digital key fob. It is best to keep an extra car key in a secure location and to have it available at any time.
Stolen Keys
If you are worried about your vehicle being stolen, it is crucial to report the loss immediately. This will ensure that the key isn't used by anyone who is not authorized and could cause expensive damages to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and more. You can also file an official police report to help identify the person who stole your key.
One of the best ways to safeguard yourself from theft is to buy a high-quality, car-specific key fob. They're not just more secure than standard keys however, they also include features such as trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your car by pressing the fob. It's always a good idea to have a spare key fob at home so that you are not stranded without your car in the event that you lose your keys.
It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it requires longer and more effort. The blank key has to be cut and the key programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle. This can be done by a locksmith who has the right tools and experience 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 however, it's more secure because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which is helpful if you have to submit an investigation in the event of theft.
In some cases you may have to bring your new key to the dealership in order to get it programmed to your vehicle. It is usually a simple procedure, however it may depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your key, an ID with a valid photo and a copy of your car's registration or title so that the technician knows you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob could cause problems if you have a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these instances you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob is able to perform its task. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail and have a short lifespan. Many people carry an extra car key.
Most of the time when a key fob isn't working, it is because the battery has failed. If the battery doesn't work it could be necessary to replace the key fob. In this situation, it is best to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have the tools required to create the new key fob and can reprogram it to your vehicle.
Keys wear out with regular use, but can also be damaged by various circumstances. Accidents such as dropping your key onto an un-porous surface or getting it stuck in a door can cause cracks and dents. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future.
A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and easily however, it is important to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. Do not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause further damage to your home or car.
One way to avoid this kind of issue is to store your key in a secure place when it's not in use. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost and will also shield it from damage caused by elements. It is also recommended to invest in a case to protect your key to protect it from weather and accidents. This will help prevent your key from becoming worn down or being completely damaged.
Keys that are misplaced
It's frustrating to lose your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most valuable personal possession, no matter if they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, left on the table in your kitchen as you ate lunch or slipped out of your pocket while you were walking the dog. If keys are the only way to get where you're headed, it could be a serious emergency.
Relax before you panic, and try these tricks.
Make sure you check where you normally put your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Look first in the places where they might have "drifted" or gotten lost under something. Then move on to the next area and so on. You might be surprised to discover them in a place you never expected.
Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information to contact your dealer or locksmith. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's guide.
If you have an extra key, reach for that one. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to have a spare. You may have hidden it in an accessible place at home, or even given it to your roommate or a family member.
It is also a good idea to contact the police in your area to see whether they've handed over any keys. You can also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know if someone has discovered your keys missing, and they might be willing to return them to you.