Car keys are an easy item to lose if you are not careful. Another reason someone might need a key made is if their car key wears down or gets bent and it does not work anymore. You can have a spare made but what happens if you do not have the original key for them to make a copy of? Locksmiths are not only knowledgeable in home locks and safes, but they are also quite versed in the automotive industry and their locking mechanisms. Before you try to get a replacement by calling a car locksmith, Brooksville residents should do a little preliminary work.
What Do I Need Before Going to See a Car Locksmith?
Before you can get another key made for you car, there is a lot of information that needs to be known about your vehicle. The first bit of information that needs to be obtained is your car’s VIN number, which is usually located on your dashboard under your windshield. Apart from the VIN, it is also important that your car’s make, model, and year made is also recorded by your car locksmith. Brooksville residents need to be aware that without this information or without a spare key to make a copy of, a locksmith is not going to be able to make you a new one.
What If my Missing Key is Electronic?
Most new cars have more complex locks that are locked and unlocked with the assistance of an electronic key fob. If this is your key that is not working, do not panic! These keys can be replaced, but it does take a little more time and effort. Usually though, key fobs themselves can not be remade by a car locksmith. Brooksville residents can get a new one from a locksmith, but most you are going to have to take it to a dealership to have them reprogram the electronic lock to your car. As will a normal car key, make sure you record ample information about your vehicle, otherwise a locksmith or dealership cannot help you all that well. Dealerships will charge you quite a bit for an electronic key fob, see if your local locksmith can help you save a little bit of money!
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of *Spring Hill Lock & Key*