Can a Locksmith Provide a Car Key Replacement?

Nothing quite brings your life to a screeching halt like losing your car keys. We depend upon our vehicles to get us back and forth to work, go shopping, and take us to any number of events. Losing a car key or damaging a car key is a big deal. If you don’t have an extra key, then you may be wondering how to get a replacement without the original. If you find yourself in this predicament, it is not the end of the world. A copy of your car key can be made even if you do not have the original. Let’s look at a few things you may need to consider if you lose or damage your only car key.

What Type of Key?

The first question you will need to answer is what type of key you will be needing. Vehicles manufactured in 1981 or earlier usually just had a regular key created from a standard key block.

If you have a newer model car, though, you may have what is called a transponder key. This type of key would include a programmed chip. This chip is used as a safety feature. This safety feature stops someone from simply recreating the key without the chip. There is also a third type of key. This type of key is known as a smart key. Smart keys operate very much like a remote. These types of keys are very different from traditional keys. A smart key will have an attached key fob. This type of key can be used to start a car without needing to insert the key at all.

What Are the Options?

If you don’t have the original key, you can get a replacement made. One quick, easy solution would be to return to the dealership and purchase a replacement key. You should note, however, that replacement keys can be expensive at the dealership. If you are looking for a more affordable solution, you could enlist the help of a locksmith. Locksmiths are capable of cutting and programing replacement keys. In some cases, they can do this for almost 50% less than at the dealership.

Not all automotive locksmiths provide this service, though. You will need to call around and find out which business can help you with this. When you first speak with a locksmith concerning a replacement key, you will need to provide them with some important information.

What Info Will the Locksmith Need?

Be prepared to provide the locksmith with important info to have the key replaced. First, you will need to provide the year, make, and model of the vehicle. It is also critical that you can provide information proving legal ownership of the vehicle. You will need to have your ID and vehicle registration available. 

Though not often, you may also need to provide a key identification number. The key identification number is often found in the owner’s manual for your vehicle.

It is also important to notify the locksmith if you believe that your key was stolen. If a key was stolen, a locksmith may be able to reprogram the new key in such a way as to prevent the old key from working. This is a security step that can be taken to protect you and your car better.

Do I Need a Tow to The Locksmith?

In most cases, a locksmith will travel to your location. If you can provide clear instructions as to where the vehicle is located, you may not need to worry about towing. Today, many emergency locksmiths use technology that enables them to cut and program a key at your location. This does away with the need for a tow. Remember, many locksmiths can also help you with keys for trucks, vans, motorcycles, and even scooters.

Bottom Line on Key Replacement

Although losing or damaging your only car key is stressful, a skilled locksmith can help you get this problem resolved quickly. Even smart keys that are programmed to your car can be cut and programmed quickly to get you back on the road in no time.

If you are in need of a locksmith in Houston, TX or the surrounding areas, please contact us at Express Locksmith. We can help you get back into your car quickly.

Categorised in: Car Key Replacement