Can a Locksmith Replace Your Car Key If You Don't Have the Original?

By: Admin Sep 21, 2022

Oh no! You dropped your car keys on the floor outside while on vacation and haven't been able to find them since.

You now require a duplicate car key because you do not have the original. How are you going to accomplish that? Simply contact a locksmith.

 To ensure that you take the appropriate procedures when you need a car key manufactured, we at Bode and Bode have put up a list of four basic things you should do ahead of time.

If you require new car keys, we recommend that you listen and take notes.

1. Know What Type of Car You Have When You Need a Car Key Made 


Before answering the question, can I get a car key manufactured without the original car keys? Should I hire a locksmith? First, you should know the answer to the question, "What kind of car do I have?"


To replace keys in vehicles manufactured before 1981, all that is required is a key cut from a standard key block. To replace keys for vehicles manufactured after 1981, the locksmith must first cut a transponder key or a key with specifically programmed chips in it for safety features, and then properly program it to start your vehicle.

2. Figure Out What Type of Key You Need

Once you've determined what kind of automobile you have, you must determine what kind of car key you require. As previously said, if your vehicle was manufactured prior to 1981, you will most likely only only a conventional key cut, whereas vehicles manufactured after 1981 will require a transponder key.


A smart key is the third type of car key you may require. Smart keys function as a remote, have a key fob attached to them, and do not require the usual method of starting the engine.

3. Get an Auto Locksmith


It is finally time to call an auto locksmith after learning about your vehicle and the type of key you require. When you need a car key created, hiring an auto locksmith is the most cost-effective alternative.


Aside from hiring a locksmith, another option for getting your car key manufactured when you don't have the original is to phone the dealership and request a replacement. Although a viable solution, having a locksmith cut and program a new key will cost twice as much.

 

Rather than having your locksmith cut and program a new car key, you can have your locksmith produce a totally new key utilizing your vehicle's ignition. Although another potential option, this approach would be far more expensive than simply having your locksmith cut and program a new key. A DIY car key replacement is an improbable alternative for obtaining a new car key created.

4. Prove Car Ownership and Have Proper Information 

When you need a locksmith to produce a car key, you must first identify the year, make, and model of your vehicle, prove ownership of the vehicle, and have the vehicle identifying number (VIN) and key identification number/key code on hand to present to the locksmith. You can demonstrate ownership of the vehicle by displaying the registration and title.

 

The VIN number can be found on the driver's side dashboard, engine bay, metal plate, and/or driver's side doorstop, and the key code can be found on the stamped inside door panel on the lock mechanism. When providing information to a locksmith, make sure to include whether or not your car keys were stolen so that he or she can reprogram your car so that the old keys will no longer work on it.

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So, the next time you need a vehicle key manufactured and wonder, "Can I have a car key made without original car keys?" Of course, the answer is! Getting a car key manufactured with or without the original key is simple with the help of a professional locksmith.


Call Dokey Lockmsith Services today to have one of our locksmiths create you a new car key!