Your car is your ticket to mobility so once you lose the keys, you’re stuck. Most car manufacturers provide two car keys for two reasons: First, so that you can have an alternative key to use when the first is damaged or misplaced. Secondly, the spare key acts as the blueprint to making a replacement for a lost car key. But what happens when you need your car key replaced without the original? Here is a breakdown of what to expect.

Missing your original car key can leave you quite frustrated, especially in times of emergencies. Yet, unlike back in the day, nowadays, not all keys are universal. In fact, most car keys are specific to the car. So, once you lose your keys, you need to know which type of key you had so the automotive locksmith professional will know which one you need. This is why it helps to always keep a spare key. If you own a Ford Escape, for instance, you cannot operate it without its corresponding Ford car key. In case you’ve lost or damaged your car key, you have the option of seeking replacement services from your respective car key dealership or professional services of a qualified automotive locksmith. The great thing about automotive locksmiths that car dealers may not be able to provide is mobility. Locksmiths can meet you at your location which is obviously more convenient. The first question a locksmith will most probably going to ask you is, “do you have the original with you?” This is because it is generally much easier to make a car key replacement with the original present. Luckily, thanks to technological advancements and competent locksmiths, it is possible to get a new car key made even without the original.

The first step to getting your car key replaced is determining the type of key that you have. The locksmith will ask you which type of key your car uses, even before they make the trip to your location. You simply need to know whether your car uses a traditional mechanical key, a transponder key or a key fob. To avoid additional charges, ensure you give the locksmith correct information. Inaccurate information will force the locksmith to make trips back to the warehouse; some locksmiths will transfer this cost to the client.

Secondly, you need to have proof of ownership of the vehicle as well as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) . In the event that you do not have the original key, automotive locksmiths use the VIN to identify which key corresponds to your specific vehicle. They are able to do this as they have access to car key code information. The VIN is located somewhere on your dashboard or on the engine bay. If you have trouble locating it, you can leave that to the auto-locksmith professional.

The process of getting a new car key made without the original takes longer than duplicating another key. With the above, an auto locksmith will use the VIN to peruse their vast vehicle database, select the right car key for you and make a new one. Should the new car key need programming, the auto-locksmith will see to it. Once you have a new car key, ensure you have a duplicate made in order to avoid such misfortunes in the future.

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