Key technology has been evolving over the years, far gone are the days where the key is a simple blade marked with “bittings” that are used to turn the barrel within the lock.
These were deemed as being insecure many years ago and where technology came in to improve security and ease of use.
But what happens when you need a replacement car key. If you call a locksmith out to your vehicle will they be able to make a replacement key? In this article, we’re going to look at answering all these types of questions for you. This is particularly relevant if you’re looking for car key replacement services in the Oklahoma City area.
But first, here’s the quick answer to get you on the right path to replacing your key, then we’ll dive into more details regarding the fundamental process behind a locksmith making a car key.
Can a locksmith make a car key? A locksmith can replicate most types of auto keys from simple blade keys to key fobs and smart keys at your location. If you do not have the original key available, then you will need to provide proof of ownership for the work to be carried out.
There are plenty of caveats and nuances regarding getting a replacement key though. Factors such as the type of vehicle, the year of the vehicle are important details, as well as having some necessary information confirmed for the locksmith to be able to properly assess the eligibility for replacement, and the type of replacement key needed for your vehicle.
So let’s move on to discussing what kinds of questions you might have that will help you solve this issue.
Do I need to use a locksmith to replace my car keys?
If your current vehicle key is damaged or faulty, then you’ll need to seek a replacement. Unfortunately, this isn’t something you can just order online. It requires specific details and more importantly proximity with your vehicle …and its existing key (if there is one) in order to fix.
For this reason, calling on a locksmith to come to your vehicle is often the only option available. Especially if you might need your vehicle quickly. Or worse still, if you need your vehicle to “go and get” a new key.
So how do I replace my vehicle key?
There are a number of ways in which you can get a replacement vehicle key. If you have access to another available vehicle you could seek the help of a dealer, new keys direct from dealers can be expensive!
You could attempt to create your own key. However, although this might seem like the cheapest option, it will likely require a blank key to work from, and can also be fraught with dangers in damaging locks if you do not have the necessary tools …which could come from unscrupulous sources, and you’ll also most likely need the right knowledge and training.
Or you could simply call a locksmith. This really is the middle ground between the first two options and is usually the norm. It cuts out some dodgy agents who might sell you faulty equipment, and provides the skills and equipment you need – on-site – in order to get the job done properly and securely.
What if I don’t have the original key?
There is a short process and a slightly longer process of replacing a vehicle key. The quick version is of course to have an existing key to work from.
The longer version where there is no key requires that the locksmith verify the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) of the vehicle. In order to do that, we would need to confirm ownership of the vehicle. In this instance, you would need to provide proof of ownership for us to carry out the work.
This is the case where we work as the premier locksmiths in Oklahoma, but you will find the same process in just about every state you’re in. So the original key can be cut without the need to have the original key code present.
What if it’s a key fob only?
In the case where you only have a key fob style key – as opposed to having a blade along with the code key, then having a second key fob available only serves to help prove ownership of the vehicle.
Therefore, if you do not have a second key fob, then it makes no difference at all, the above situation would prevail in requiring proof of ownership for the vehicle before we can create the new key.
Can a locksmith program a transponder type key?
Yes, we can replace just about any vehicle key. So whether you have a blank transponder key or not, we are able to program a new transponder key to correspond with your specific vehicle. As car key replacement specialists in Oklahoma, we carry out this process many times each week.
What will the Locksmith need to know?
When inquiring with us to have your key made, there are some details we will need from you to proceed. Where possible, it helps to be armed with this information beforehand.
You will need to initially identify the year, the make and the model of your vehicle. Then, you will also need to confirm that you can prove ownership of your vehicle – before we can attend any on-call service. For this be sure to have your registration and title details to hand.
We will also need to know your VIN, Vehicle Identification Number. This can be obtained either on the title documentation that accompanies your vehicle. It might also be found on the driver’s side door pillar, or on a plate within the driver’s side dashboard area.
Of course, you will also need to know what kind of key you will need, so let’s look at that next so you can report it to us at the same time.
Will you have the right tools?
Our trained locksmiths use the latest technology to cut and program new keys at your location. They have all the right equipment to cater for any of the latest key technologies.
Regardless of the type of vehicle you have, or the location in Oklahoma, we should be able to help you get a new key made for your vehicle.
What kind of replacement key you will need
You will need to know what kind of key you will require for your type of vehicle. One helpful tip we can give you on this is that if your car is built from the year 1981 or earlier, then you will likely just need a simple blade-style key that can be cut from a standard key block,
For any models beyond the year 1981, the likelihood is that you’ll need a transponder key type. Within a transponder key is a programmed chip that contains safety features designed to increase the security of your vehicle. Without the correct programming, the key will still not work in your car ignition system.
The modern key type beyond this is the smart key. These types of keys are more akin to a remote control system. These smart keys are a proximity type device, upon using them to gain entry to the car, they do not then require you to enter them into the ignition to use them. We are also able to replace these keys with the right details available.
So what vehicle keys can’t be replaced?
As the go-to locksmith specialists in Oklahoma City, we have the staff available to replace just about any vehicle key available on the market. Whether, they’re program transponder keys, key fobs, keyless entry devices, or just plain blade keys, we can take care of that for you.
Can I call out an auto locksmith from anywhere?
We operate in the Oklahoma area, so we’re able to attend your location. Just be sure to provide us with an address, as well as the cross streets of your particular location and the details outlined above. See the map below which outlines where our call out service extends to.
To finish…
We hope this guide has helped in understanding how we can help get you a new key for your vehicle. We’re able to cut keys for many types of vehicles, such as scooters or motorcycles, vans, trucks, caravans, and more. Why not give us a call now, and let us provide you with a new replacement auto key …and peace of mind.