What To Know About Replacing Your Car Keys
If you have missing or damaged car keys, knowing what you can do in your specific situation can be challenging, confusing, and stressful. After all, you need your car keys to be able to get to and from where you need to be, which is especially stressful if you need to get to work, but knowing what you can do about it and what your cheapest options may be is difficult to determine. Here's what you should know:
Call a Locksmith:
One option you have if you have lost your car keys is to call a locksmith who can make a duplicate key for you. However, a locksmith may be limited in their ability to replicate more technologically advanced keys, such as keys that work without actually being put into the ignition. Otherwise, a locksmith can replace your car key for the best possible price.
Go to Your Car Dealership:
The car dealership that manufactured your key should be able to replace your key for you, although it might cost more. However, this is definitely your best option if you want to have a key that has the dealership logo on it and the technological features that your previous key had.
Be Sure the Key Is Programmed:
When you have a new car key made, you have to be sure that it is programmed to your car. It's best to ensure that this is done before you pay for the new key. This way, you don't have to worry about getting it done later on after you have already paid for the service. The key won't work even if it fits to the car if it is not programmed.
You Need Your License and Registration:
Be sure that you have your license and registration available when you utilize the service of a locksmith or auto dealership to make a new key for your vehicle. You won't be able to get a new key made if you cannot prove that you are the owner of the vehicle.
Get a Warranty:
Finally, you need to be sure that you receive a warranty for your new key. This should be at least a three-month warranty just in case the key stops working. Most locksmiths and car dealerships will provide this; just be sure that you double-check on it.
When you know these things about replacing your car keys, you can be sure that you know what to do in this stressful situation to make it a bit less stressful.