Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. Thanks for reading & supporting Life of Creed Blog! Read full disclosure policy here.
Failure to keep a car key safe or replacing it with another key can be a frustrating experience. At times, the key can break, bend or wear down until it no longer works properly. Whatever could be the reason behind your car keys malfunctioning or going missing, the key is necessary for proper car use, so every car needs at least one working set of keys.
When your key is lost, start looking for replacement car keys quickly or when the keys are not functioning properly. At times, the key wears down until it no longer retains its shape. It may also bend, rendering it useless. Some high-tech keys may be laser-etched; which the car scans to make sure they are the right keys.
Now, Let Us Have A Look At 5 Important Steps to Get Replacement Car Keys
1. Get VIN: Firstly, get the vehicle identification number (VIN) from the dashboard or engine bay of the car. Keep a note of the make, model, and year of the vehicle. If the VIN is difficult to find, do check out the vehicle’s title or insurance paperwork to find out.
2. Call a Locksmith: Old cars made by non-luxury manufacturers have the easiest keys to replace. Making a call to the local auto locksmith can solve the entire problem in several cases. A locksmith can even save you a lot of money as compared to a dealership. But, if the key is from the latest car model, the shape may become too cumbersome for the local locksmith. However, there are many locksmiths capable of digital programming replacement car keys, but many cannot copy a code laser-etched on to the key.
3. Have a Locksmith Create the Key and Dealer Program It: If a locksmith can make the new key but cannot program it, it makes sense to take it to the dealership. The module which requires to be programmed can be a little bit costly through the dealership so make sure to research other options too.
4. Let the Dealership Replace Your Complex Key: If the above options are not viable, then you are more likely to have a key with complex features for more security. The replacement car keys might be available through the manufacturer and ordering the key may take one or two weeks. If such is the scenario, visit the dealership where the car was purchased and see if the warranty will cover the cost.
5. Price versus Reliability: Many cars use keyless entry devices nowadays and they barely resemble a real key. If one of these devices breaks and batteries are not dead, buying new replacement car keys becomes a necessity. At times, they cost a little bit extra to purchase online, however going through a dealership is a more secure bet. You can even program certain keys all by yourself and other types must be programmed by an expert. In some cases, the key is programmed at the factory and then sent to the customer; however, this is only the case with a few high-end manufacturers.
Conclusion
Security is of vital importance and an unlocked door can ruin a car just as rapidly as a seized engine under the wrong circumstances. Replacement car keys can be a pretty expensive affair so be, prepared to incur a hefty amount. Always try to connect with the locksmiths when possible and researching on prices can really save a lot of frustration down the lane and you will not have to worry about the expense in the near future. Thus, without any stress, time, and money wastage get the spare key from the ideal service provider that caters to your requirements.
About the Author
Jack Louis
Guest Blogger
If you found this post helpful, please PIN IT!
Hi, before you go…
Don’t forget to join our Private Facebook page. The page is created to share your work, pitch your services and learn from one another.
If you enjoyed the blog we would like to have you join our email list and receive the weekly email of the latest blog post, tips, and exclusive content, you can join now!
