Losing or misplacing your car key can be a frustrating experience—if not a bit scary, especially if it's your only copy. However, the good news is that there's plenty of car key replacement services that you can take advantage of when the time arises. Many of which that offer rapid replacement services so that you can get your vehicle back on the road. Let's examine some of the more important things that you'll want to look out for when replacing your car key.
Make a Spare Car Key Even if You Don't Need it
The easiest way to prevent a potentially inconvenient situation is to make your car key copy now—before losing the original. This will save you a lot of time and frustration in the future, so look at it as a smart investment “just in case.” It's recommended that you don't store your spare key in your vehicle itself—it won't do you much good if you're ever locked out. It can make a car thief's job considerably easier.
Consider storing your spare key in a safe location in your home. Alternatively you may consider a magnetic key box which you can securely attach to the bottom of your vehicle. It won't come out while you're driving. If you get the right kind and put it in the right spot, these kinds of magnetic key storage boxes can be very difficult to spot. This way you'll have a spare key with you no matter where you are, outside your vehicle.
Have a Replacement Made Without the Original Key
Assuming you no longer have the original car key, you'll have to get a replacement key. The year, make, and model of your car can affect how much this will generally cost. Many newer models of car use wireless key fob. It allows you to lock or unlock your vehicle from a distance, along with other features like opening the trunk or activating the horn for emergencies. If your car uses a standard key without these features, of course the replacement cost will be significantly less.
Most auto key replacement services are fully mobile. Meaning that rather than having to figure out how to get your vehicle to them, they'll come to you. This makes things much easier, especially considering that without your key you won't be able to start your car! A technician will come to wherever you're parked and create a new key for you, including programming the more advanced kinds of keys.
Final Thoughts
Losing your car key isn't a cause for panic. Having a replacement service come to you to fit and program a new key to your car is a relatively inexpensive service. It shouldn't take less than an hour. However, the best cure is prevention! So if you still have your original key, it's a great idea to make a spare right away.
Locksmith Services
Garage Door Services