Car Key Replacement Guide: Essential Tips & Types Explained

Losing your keys is more common than you think. Even if you search the area where you last had them, they may appear some hours later, but don’t panic! Car key replacement is our most wanted service and here we’ll give you some tips on how to solve the situation as soon as possible.

Lost Car Keys? Here’s What To Do Next For a Quick Replacement

Staying calm is crucial when you realize you have lost your keys. This usually happens when you are in a rush or overwhelmed, so we suggest you breathe in and out and figure out what to do. 

You can get a new car key by calling your car dealership or an automotive locksmith in Phoenix Metro Area. At US Key Service we are emergency car locksmiths and we can reach out to where you are and replace your key instantly.

Gather Your Vehicle In formation

It is crucial to know your car’s characteristics and to have some information at hand so the expert can provide the key that works with your car. You’ll need to identify which type of key you have as well as find your vehicle identification number (VIN). This can be found on the dash and the driver’s side door jamb. A new key can be made from the VIN, with previously proving the car’s ownership with the necessary papers.

Identify Your Car Key Type To Speed Up The Replacement Process

Knowing what type of keys your car has is necessary in case you lose them and don’t have a spare one. In this way, you could provide the expert with information and speed up the process.

Smart key

It can only be replaced by a professional locksmith. It is not even necessary to put it into the ignition to start a car:  it works with the start button in your vehicle and has a proximity sensor.

Remote Key

Remote keys can lock and unlock your car if you are near it. Its replacement takes longer as the professional needs special equipment, access to sources –accessible only for licensed locksmiths– and special equipment, so it has a higher cost.

Transponder Key

It is more modern than the remote key and is the best option to decrease the risk of intrusion and theft as they have a chip in the key handle. A wireless connection needs to be made between the key and the car to be used. In case of losing this type of key, the auto locksmith will need to cut a key and also program it. This may take a few days to be done, as your car’s computer needs to work properly to be paired to the key.

Valet Keys

As its name shows, they are designed for valets, and can only lock or unlock cars. Replacing it is cheap and fast.

Mechanical Or Traditional Keys

They are common for older cars. As they are made of metal, they are easy and cheap to replace. The auto locksmith cuts a new key using a standard key blank and cutting machine.

Can You Track Lost Car Keys? Here’s What You Need To Know

Even if cars have become much more modern and include high technology, car keys can’t be tracked. In case of losing them or being stolen, you’ll need to call an expert for help.

How Do I Get A Replacement Car Key Without The Original?

A skilled automotive locksmith can make a new car key without the original one, but how does this work? 

Car lockout professionals need special tools and appropriate information about your car, such as the make, model, and year. A cutting machine is used to cut a new and suitable key for your car, and, in case it is a transponder key or a key fob, the locksmith will also program it.

The Importance Of Having a Spare Car Key: Be Prepared For The Future

Once you have a new key, make sure you get a spare one. It is the most practical way to ensure you don’t need to call a locksmith in the short term. Keep it in a safe place or give it to a close friend or family member in case you have another emergency.

Locked Out In Phoenix? We’re Here To Help — Call US Key Service Now For Quick Key Replacement!

It is crucial that, in case you lose your car keys,  you call a professional car locksmith only. In this way, you’ll make sure to get the perfect key without risking your car’s performance. Contact us at US Key Service and we’ll reach out as soon as possible to help you!

US Key Service
4065 E University Dr #500
Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: 480-983-6149
Email: uskeyservice@gmail.com
Web: uskeyservice.com