Lost Auto Keys And No Spare: What Do You Do?
Posted on: 15 December 2021
Losing your car keys is undoubtedly one of the most stressful experiences you can have. Especially if you're in a hurry to get into your car, like in the morning before heading off to work.
So, what do you do? Do you abandon your car and start planning on buying another one? Not at all. With modern advancements in the locksmith industry, you can replace keys for any type of car. Here is what you should do if you have lost your auto keys and have no spare.
Gather Your Car Information
Understanding your car is the first step to getting a lost auto key replacement. That's because different keys are meant or made for different types of cars. Some things you're expected to know include:
- Make and model of your car
- Vehicle registration
- Year
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
Typically, the VIN can be found on the driver's door or the dashboard on the driver's side. Sometimes, it's also etched on the engine block, transmission, car frame, or bumpers.
Understand the Type of Car Key Needed
Knowing the features of your auto keys before contacting a locksmith can help to accelerate the whole procedure. Every car key usually has its specific vehicle and cannot be shared with another vehicle.
However, you don't need to have the original keys of your vehicle to know the type of car key needed. You only need to know whether you're dealing with a traditional key, a car key fob, or a transponder key.
Call an Auto Locksmith
Professional car locksmiths are adequately trained and skilled to offer lost auto key replacement services. They are your best bet for creating a new set of keys that work for your specific vehicle. They can also program your replacement key fob.
Another important thing to note is that most auto locksmiths offer mobile services. This means they are well-equipped to handle the job onsite.
Prove Car Ownership and Let the Auto Locksmith Handle the Rest
Once the locksmiths have arrived at your location, they will ask for information about your car and some personal information. This isn't to harass or frustrate you but to ensure you are the car owner that requires key replacement. Imagine if locksmiths didn't verify the owners of vehicles – anyone, including criminals, would call them to unlock any car they wanted.
Once your locksmith has ascertained you're the rightful owner, you don't have to do anything else. You can relax and let them do what they know best. In most cases, replacing a car key will take a few minutes, depending on the type of car key and the complexity of the job. Also, consider getting more than one key to ensure you don't find yourself in a similar situation again.
To learn more information, reach out to an auto locksmith service near you.
Share