14 Cartoons About Replacement Car Key That'll Brighten Your Day
How to Get a Replacement Car Key
Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing in pockets, under couch cushions or just out of sight altogether. When they do, relocating them isn't as costly or difficult as you might think.
You can usually obtain a spare key by using your vehicle identification (VIN) which is located on your registration certificate or title certificate.
Lost Keys
It used to be that losing keys to your car was a major inconvenience. You could visit the dealership, pay a small amount of money and then get a new one. With the advances in anti-theft and car security technology it is no longer an option. Today, the procedure to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be much more expensive and time consuming.
The type of key you have will determine the price. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern cars which is why they are more affordable to replace. You can determine the type of key in your car by taking a look at the key ring, or by calling your dealer.
The next thing you need to do is find out the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique code that is assigned to each vehicle manufactured and can be located by checking the door jamb or washer fluid reservoir. It is also found in the owner's manual or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard.
Auto locksmiths are often able to help in the event of losing keys and are among the quickest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask a staff member whether they are able to make a duplicate of your key. If they have the right key blanks, they can usually do it for most car models and manufactures.
Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able to assist you with the process of losing your car keys and will usually offer a replacement transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer car key replacement as an optional service. The cost can be expensive especially if you lose an electronic key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always have an extra key on hand and keep it in a secure place.
Stolen Keys
Report the loss of your key immediately if you are worried about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and much more. You can also file a police report to aid in identifying the person who stole your key.
A high-quality car-specific fob is one of the best ways to guard yourself against theft. They're not just more secure than standard keys however, they also come with features such as trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. It is advisable to always keep a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose your car keys.
A key that's not an actual fob can be replaced however it will require more work and time. cost of replacement car keys needs to be cut and the key programmed to function with the security system in your car. This can be done by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and expertise however, it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.
A replacement key can be obtained at the dealer. This will be more expensive however it is more secure because the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy of your vehicle's ID number, which could be helpful if you have to make a police report in the event of theft.
In certain instances, you might require taking your new key to a dealer to be programmed. This is typically a fast process, but it can depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo ID and a copy of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician is aware that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Key Damage
A damaged key fob may cause problems if you own a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these situations you'll require a replacement to ensure that the fob can perform its function. It's not common for smart keys to break and have a limited lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car keys.
Most of the time when a key-fob isn't working, it is because the battery has failed. If the battery doesn't function, you may have to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealer. They'll have the equipment required to create the new key fob and will also reprogram it for your vehicle.
Keys will naturally wear away when used, but they can be damaged in different ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door could cause cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again.
A locksmith can resolve this problem quickly and easily but it's essential to hire a professional who is certified. It's not recommended to attempt to repair the broken key by yourself. This can result in further damage to your vehicle or your home.
One way to avoid this type of problem is to keep your keys in a secure location when it's not in use. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost and help keep your key from getting damaged by elements outside. You should also think about investing in a case that protects your key to further protect it from weather or accidents. This will prevent your key from becoming worn down or damaged.
Keys that are lost
There are few things more annoying than losing your car keys. If they were dropped by a toddler in the grocery store, left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch or left in your pocket while walking your dog, you feel like you've lost your most important personal item. When keys are the only means of getting to where you're headed, it could be a true emergency.
Relax before you panic and try these tips.
Immediately check where you usually put your keys, or at the very least the last time you had them. Sometimes, they "drift" to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to take a look first in those areas. Then move to the next area, and the next. You may be surprised to find them in a spot you didn't expect.
Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need to know this information to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver-side door post or stamped on a steel plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in your owner's manual.
If you have an extra key, reach for it. A spare key is among the most effective ways to ensure that you don't lose your car keys. You may have hidden it in a safe place at home or given it to your roommate or a family member.
You should also try calling the police in your area to see whether they've surrendered any keys. You can also inquire at your workplace or at school. You never know who could have stumbled across your keys and be willing to return them to you.