How to Get a Car Key Replacement Without the Original?
The question above is probably the most frequently asked regarding lost car keys. If you lose your car keys and don’t have a spare key, the first thing to do is stay calm. There are 2 options on how to get a replacement key without the original.
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- Call A Locksmith
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An automotive locksmith can usually get you a new key made within 20-45 minutes.
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- Car Dealership
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One more option car owner have to make a new car key is to visit a car dealership.
Which option is better?
Hiring a car locksmith is the best and the right option to get a new car key because they will make the new one faster and cheaper.
Steps To Do If You Lost Your Car Keys:
To make the process of getting a new car key easy, follow the steps below when you lose your keys.
#1. Find Out What Type of Car Keys Have You Lost
Before you call a locksmith or a car dealership, it’s best to determine what type of keys you have lost.
There are 4 types of car keys. They are the following:
Traditional Car Key
The traditional keys used by the auto manufacturers are purely mechanical; it’s very old technology. You put it into an ignition cylinder switch and turn to start your vehicle with just one simple motion of turning your key in the lock.
Car Key Fob
A car key fob is a small, wireless device that a car key fob can lock and unlock a vehicle. The key fob can also use it to start the car. The key fob is typically attached to a traditional keyring.
Transponder Key
Transponder keys are a more advanced form of protection for cars. They work by sending a wireless signal between the key and the car. They were created in the early 1990s and have been used in vehicles since then.
Smart Key.
A smart key is a keyless car entry technology that eliminates a traditional key. When you want to start your vehicle, press a button.
No more fumbling through your purse or pocket to find your keys and then jostling them into the ignition slot with successively frustrating attempts of finagling. You push a button.
#2. Get Useful Information
Before you call a locksmith, you should get some basic information that will be helpful to the locksmith.
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- The vehicle makes, year and model.
- Car Registration
- Car VIN
- Identification document (driver license or ID)
- Your vehicle location
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Why do I need this information to get a new car key made?
This information will be very helpful to a locksmith; without this information, the process of getting a new key to your car will take longer and can be more expensive. Proof of identification is necessary to prove that you are the vehicle owner.
#3. Contact a Locksmith Near You
Now, after you have got all the needed information for getting a new car key, it’s time to call a locksmith.
Before you call the first locksmith company you find online, we highly recommend reading the article: things to consider before hiring a locksmith company.
How to find a local locksmith near you?
The best and the easy way to find a local locksmith is to search for the keyword “locksmith near me” on google, yahoo, or bing. By using that keyword, you will find all the nearby locksmiths in your area.
Another option is to use Locksmiths Finder, the largest locksmith directory online.
After calling a locksmith, all you have to do is wait for them to come and make a new car key for your vehicle.
FAQ
How much does a replacement car key cost?
Replacing your keys isn’t as expensive as you may think. The average price for replacing lost or broken car keys is between $50-$350, depending on the vehicle make and model and what work needs to be done to make a new key. Consider having more than one key made if you have found yourself in this situation. Once the locksmith is there, duplicating another key will be much cheaper.
How long does It take to make a new key without the original?
Depending on its type and complexity, making a new key without the original takes around 20 to 45 minutes.
In rare cases where your locksmith does not have a blank key in stock, they can order it for you and provide a spare set as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The best and the right option to get a car key replacement is using a locksmith. Locksmiths can make your new one faster and cheaper without all of the hassles you would have with going through a dealership. Going through the steps listed above before calling a locksmith will make getting your new car key made much easier and will ensure that you get the right one.
ASAP Locksmith
1201 Main Street Dallas, Texas 75202 469-208-0041
