Can You Replace Your Car Keys Without The Originals?

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Like most car owners, you have probably lost your car keys a couple of times. In some cases, you'll find them or use the spare keys you have stashed somewhere. What happens when you lose the original and the spare key? 

The first thought would be to retrace your steps and search your surroundings. If you're composed, you'll find that you misplaced the keys, and a simple search will unearth them. If you're unlucky, consider other alternatives like the following.

Request a Replacement From Your Car Dealership 

If you bought your car at a car dealership, consider obtaining the replacement key from your local car dealer. You'll need proof of ownership of the car by providing documents such as car title and registration. 

Since you don't have a key, you'll have the car towed to the dealership. All this will come at a hefty price, but you'll get keys that are identical to your originals. 

Contact an Automotive Locksmith

If you're locked out of your car, contact an automotive locksmith near you. Most locksmiths offer emergency services and will travel to your location once you provide the address. It doesn't matter whether you're driving a motorbike, truck, or an SUV; a skilled auto locksmith can replace the keys. 

Are Auto Locksmiths Reliable?

Yes, auto locksmiths are reliable and often available 24/7, unlike dealerships. They'll offer the services you need when you need them. However, automotive locksmiths won't provide replacement keys just because you asked them to do so. 

You'll need to provide proof of ownership and your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number. The locksmith needs to verify that this is your vehicle and you're not trying to break in. Once ownership is verified, be sure to tell the locksmith how you lost your keys. If your keys were stolen, you'll need to have the car reprogrammed so that the old keys won't work. 

Should You Go to a Locksmith or Dealership?

If you need access to your car immediately, an automotive locksmith is the best option. It's cheaper and can come to you wherever you are. The dealership can also come to your location, but they'll charge you for the extra expenses. Your car will be towed to the local dealer, and you'll have to pay for towing.

An auto locksmith can come to your location with the necessary tools and equipment. They'll cost less and are available anytime you need them. Auto locksmiths are the best and cheapest alternative compared to dealership key replacements. 

For more information, contact a locksmith in your area, such as ASAP Lock & Key.

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1 October 2021

Keeping Your Business Safe

When you start a business, it's easy to forget about insuring your entire building and all of your inventory. Unfortunately, I made this mistake, and I ended up paying for it dearly when our place was robbed a few months after our store opened. I knew that I had to do something to improve our future security, so I contacted a business that offered locks, keys, and safes. They came out, rekeyed our entire building, replaced our safe with something that was a lot sturdier, and gave us all electronic codes to the keypads that controlled access to the building. Check out this blog to learn more about keeping your business safe.