What You Need to Know When Buying Replacement Car Keys

For some people, the most exciting part of buying a car is receiving their car keys or even putting the key into the ignition. However, it can be quite the opposite type of emotion when you find out you have lost your car keys or in some cases the keys have stopped working.

Many cars now use electronic key fobs rather than the classic lock and key method. These electronic fobs have their advantages and can be very useful, however, they tend to break far more easily and can even run out of battery. In a lot of cases, keys can be replaced, but sometimes you may need to buy a replacement key. This article will give you advice on what you need to know when buying replacement car keys.

Check your insurance
Many car insurance policies cover the cost of replacing your car keys if they are lost, damaged or stolen. Before you start trying to consider how to replace your keys, it is worth checking your insurance policy or calling your insurance company up to see if they can help. Some insurance companies even offer this service without applying an excess charge.

Make sure you know what type of key you use
Traditional car keys can in most cases can be replaced directly by a locksmith. If it’s a simple key that you would put in the car door and turn a locksmith can usually help when provided with the details of the car and make. Although these keys are a little bit more specialist, this should not cost you a massive amount.

However, many modern cars use electronic key fobs that have features such as remote control locking and setting an alarm. Depending on the make of car you drive this will determine whether or not you can go to a specialist locksmith or if you have to go to the motor dealership directly. A dealership will be typically be far more expensive, but in some circumstances this will be the only option you will have open to you.

Ensure you have identification
When purchasing replacement car keys, it is important that you take with you your vehicle registration document (V5), your driving license and proof of address. This is, of course, to prove you are the genuine owner of the car. This is a cautionary method to ensure if somebody stole your car they cannot just make duplicate keys and sell it on easily.

Watch out for scams
As with most valuable items, there are going to be people trying to make some quick money and scam others. This is no different for car keys. It is important to ensure if you are going to risk purchasing a set of replacement car keys online that you fully check the details before purchasing. If you are using sites online, the risk is even greater, and you need to ensure you read reviews to ensure you are using a trusted seller.

If you follow the advice from this article when buying replacement keys for your car, you should be protected and reduce your risk. Always make sure you are fully aware of what you need and if in doubt call your insurance company or wherever you bought the car from for additional advice.

Credits to main article source: http://www.keyfitlocksmiths.co.uk/articles/50-what-you-need-to-know-when-buying-replacement-car-keys.

This article can also be read at: Locksmith Pros Buffalo NY.