Losing or breaking your car key or key fob can be a real pain. Not only do you have to worry about getting a new key or key fob made, but you also have to worry about making sure that you don’t make any replacement key mistakes along the way.
Here are 7 common car key replacement mistakes that you should avoid: Driving Tips from an auto locksmith!
- Trying to replace your car keys yourself when you’re not technically savvy. Unless you’re an experienced locksmith, trying to replace your car keys on your own is a recipe for disaster. Not only are you likely to make mistakes, but you could also end up damaging your car in the process. Save yourself the hassle and leave it to a professional locksmith.
- Not having the right tools or knowledge. Even if you are technically savvy if you don’t have the right tools or knowledge, replacing your car key or smart key can be difficult. Make sure that you have everything that you need before attempting to replace your key. Otherwise, you could end up making expensive mistakes or with the wrong key.
- Ignoring warning signs that your physical key or key fob is about to break. If your ignition key is showing signs of wear and tear, don’t ignore it! Getting a new key made before your old one breaks will save you time and money in the long run.
- Replacing your car key yourself rather than going through a car locksmith. Unless you’re absolutely sure that you can replace your car key without any problems, it’s always best to go through a professional locksmith company. They’ll be able to get the key-cutting job done quickly and efficiently without any headaches on your part.
- Trying to use a copied key that doesn’t work. If you’re trying to use a copied key, it’s important to make sure that it’s an exact copy of your original key. Otherwise, it’s likely that the copied key won’t work and you’ll just end up wasting time and money with your key replacement.
- Not knowing the make and model of your car. When getting a new car key made, it’s important to correctly state the make and model of your car as well as your car’s registration number. This will help the auto locksmith ensure that he creates a transponder or physical key that works with your specific vehicle.
- Being unable to provide proof of ownership or forgetting to bring your driver’s license. When getting a new car key made, most locksmiths will require proof of car ownership as well as a valid driver’s license. If you’re unable to provide these things, it’s likely that the locksmith will not be able to help you replace your key fobs or get a duplicate key done.
These are just some of the most common mistakes that people make when trying to replace their car keys!
To avoid these mistakes, be sure to follow these simple steps:
- Don’t try to replace your keys yourself unless you’re a trained locksmith
- Make sure you select an experienced locksmith with the right tools and knowledge when attempting to find someone to replace your keys
- Don’t ignore warning signs that your old key is about to break
- Go through a professional locksmith if possible before contacting the car dealership
- Use an exact copy of your original key
- Know the make and model of your car as well as your registration number
- Provide proof of ownership and bring your driver’s license when getting a new key made!
If you follow these steps, you’ll be well on your way toward replacing your keys quickly and easily!
If you do run into trouble though, don’t hesitate to reach out for help from professionals like Chicago Car Keys. We’re always happy to help! Call Jose at (773) 521-7000 today!
