3 Common Reasons Why Your Replacement Car Key Isn't Working (And The Best Ways To Fix It)

How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. But if they do, getting replacement keys isn't as difficult or expensive as it might appear. You can usually obtain an extra key using your vehicle identification (VIN) which is located on your registration certificate or title certificate. Lost Keys It was the case that losing your car keys was a major inconvenience. You could just visit your local dealer and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive an alternative key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The replacement of keys that have been lost is more expensive and time-consuming. The type of car key that you have is a significant factor in the cost you pay for an alternative. The older, basic metal “insert and turn” keys aren't very popular in modern cars which is why they are cheaper to replace. You can determine the kind of key in your car by taking a look at the key ring, or by calling your dealer. Next, you will need to find the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle produced by the manufacturer, and is located by inspecting the door jamb or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's guide or on a sticker located on the dashboard of the driver. Auto locksmiths can often help in the event of a lost key, and they are among the quickest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask an associate if they can cut you a copy of your key. They are usually able to do this for all makes and models of vehicles in the event that they have the appropriate key blanks. replacement key for car near me is to contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able assist you with the process of losing your car keys and generally provide a new transponder in the event that it is required. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. However, the cost can still be high, especially if you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep a spare car key in a secure place and keep it at all times. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about your car being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key isn't misused by unauthorised people and could cause expensive damages to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You can also file an official police report that may help identify the person who took your key. One of the most effective methods to safeguard yourself from theft is to buy an expensive, car-specific key fob. They're not just more secure than regular keys and keys, but they also come with features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car by pressing the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob home so that you're not stuck without your car if you lose your keys. A key that's not an actual fob can be replaced however it will require longer and more effort. The key blank has to be cut and the key has to be programmed so that it can be used with the security system of your car. This can be done by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and experience but it's generally more expensive than replacing your lost key fob. A replacement key can be obtained at the dealership. This is more expensive however, it's a safer choice because the dealer has access to special equipment that can prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy your vehicle's ID number, which can be useful if you need to file an official police report in the event of a theft. In certain instances, you might require taking your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. This is typically a fast procedure, however it may depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo ID and the original of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician knows you are the owner. Key Damage If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and starts it, a damaged or defective key fob can cause problems. In these cases, you will need to replace the key fob in order to allow it to fulfill its function. Smart keys can break and only last a certain amount of time. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car key. If a key-fob stops working, its battery is usually dead. If the battery doesn't function, it could be necessary to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They will have all the necessary equipment to create a new key fob, and can also reprogram your car. Keys are prone to wear and tear as they use them however, they can be damaged in various ways too. Inaccidents such as dropping your key onto a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door may cause dents and cracked. These damages can make your key difficult to use, or impossible. A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently, but it's important to hire a professional who is certified. It's not advisable to try to repair damaged keys on your own. This could result in more damage to your vehicle or your home. Store your key in a secure place when not in use to avoid this issue. This can reduce the risk of it being lost or stolen and also help keep your key from getting damaged by outside elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help protect it against accidents and weather. This will help prevent your key from getting damaged or worn out. Keys that are misplaced There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most valuable personal item, whether they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, tossed on your kitchen table while you ate your lunch, or fell out of your pocket while you were walking your dog. If the keys are your only means of getting to where you're headed, it could be a serious emergency. But before you get scared, take a deep breath and try these tips: Check immediately where you typically put your keys, or at least the last time you used them. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to look in those places first. Then move on to the next area and the next. You may be surprised find them in a location 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 locksmith or dealer. Your VIN is located on the driver's side of the door or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, you should grab it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep a spare. You may have hidden it in an accessible place at home or given it to a family member or roommate. You can also contact the police in your locality to inquire whether anyone has handed in the key. It's not an ideal idea to inquire around at your workplace or school, too. You never know if someone has found your missing keys and is willing to return them to you.