How to get a replacement car key without the original

You’re ready to go; there’s just one problem: You can’t find your keys. If you’re in this situation, it can be frustrating and annoying. You might wonder, “Can I get a car key without the original?”

Here’s how to get a replacement car key when you’re locked out of your car and don’t have the original key. Head to a locksmith

You can replace your lost car key at a locksmith, even if you don’t have the original key. Going straight to a locksmith may be more cost-effective than going to your car dealer, but you’ll need some information to make the process easier.

Gather your information

To get a replacement key from a locksmith, you’ll want to have the following information ready:

– Make of the car
– Model of the car
– Year – Car registration
– Title
– Vehicle identification number (VIN)

The information will help the locksmith identify what type of key your car needs. You can find your car’s VIN on the dashboard on the driver’s side or the driver’s door. You’ll also need this information to prove that you’re the owner of the car. Before the locksmith gets started, they will need to ensure you’re the rightful owner of the vehicle.

Understand what type of car key you need

Different cars require different types of car keys. Often, the type of car key you need comes down to the year your vehicle was made.

If your car was manufactured before 1981, you can likely get a standard key at a locksmith or, in some cases, a hardware store. Older vehicles generally don’t have specialized electronic components, such as transponders or chips. Vehicles made after 1981 generally have more advanced technology. A locksmith may need to create a transponder key. In this case, going to an automotive locksmith or your dealer will be your best bet.

If you have a newer car, or your original car key was a key fob, you may need a smart key replacement. Key fobs communicate with your vehicle’s ignition and need to be close by to start your car. If you need a replacement, you’ll need to buy a new fob at your car dealership or an automotive store to get one programmed.

Contact to an automotive locksmith

Getting a replacement key at your car dealership can work, but you could pay a lot more than if you had gone to an automotive locksmith. As an automotive locksmith Best Rate Locksmiths can create a new key that works with your specific vehicle. On top of that, an automotive locksmith may be able to program your replacement key fob if that’s the issue.