It’s amazing how much we depend on our cars in our day-to-day lives. Many of us could not even get to work without our cars. This is why losing your car key or breaking your key off in the ignition or lock can seem like a nightmare. This is especially stressful if you don’t have an extra key. If this happens to you, don’t panic. Believe it or not, it is possible to have a copy of your car key made without the original.
What Kind of Replacement Key Will You Need?
If you find yourself in a position where you must have a car key made, your first step is to determine what kind of key you will need. If you own a car from 1981 or earlier, you may just need a simple key cut from a standard key block.
Newer-model cars have cut keys called transponder keys. These keys include programmed chips as safety features. Even if a transponder key was cut, it still would not turn on the car without the proper programming. A third kind of car key is a smart key. Smart keys act as a remote and are not like traditional keys at all. These resemble an attached key fob and do not require the traditional means of turning the ignition.
Don’t Have the Original Key?
You can still acquire a replacement key if you have lost the original. You may have the option of returning to the dealer to obtain a replacement, however, this can be very expensive, especially if you need your vehicle to be towed to your dealership’s location. A more affordable option is to enlist the services of an auto locksmith. In fact, many dealers utilize the services of outside locksmiths for replacement keys and many locksmiths can cut and program the exact same key for about 50% less cost than a dealership.
An experienced locksmith will be able to make a replacement key for you even if you do not have the original. When you contact a locksmith, you will need to supply some information to the company before your key can be replaced.
What Will Your Locksmith Will Need to Know?
You will need to be able to identify the year, make and model of your car. You will also need to prove ownership of the vehicle, so have your registration or title handy. The vehicle identification number is more commonly known as the VIN number, and your locksmith will need to know this as well.
The VIN number can be found either on driver’s side doorpost or stamped on a metal plate on the driver’s side dashboard. Your key identification number is also an important item to have, and this can usually be found in your car manual; however is not always required information. Let your locksmith know if you believe that your keys have been stolen. If this is the case, he or she will need to reprogram your car in such a way that the old keys will no longer work.
Do You Need to Worry About a Tow?
If you require an emergency locksmith to travel to you, make sure that you can provide the address or cross streets of your location. Our locksmith will utilize the newest technology to cut your new key and program your key or smart key on the spot. It doesn’t matter where you are or the type of vehicle you need help with. The services of a skilled professional also extend to keys for scooters, trucks, vans, caravans, and motorcycles.
The loss or damage of your only car key is a stressful situation. Pop-A-Lock Locksmiths of Phoenix can help you handle your emergency efficiently. Our professionals are trained to handle nearly all car models, so you can be assured that your vehicle is in excellent hands. Rest assured, your key will be replaced and no damage will be done to your car in the process. There’s never a bad time to contact us; we are open 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
