Finding that you have lost the key to your vehicle can be a troubling experience. Unfortunately, many drivers will make poor decisions when they are faced with the need to have an emergency copy of their car keys made.
Avoid Attempting To Force The Lock To Open
It can be a normal impulse for a person to attempt to force the lock on their car door to release when they are locked out of the vehicle. However, this can actually contribute to severe damage to the locking mechanism that may result in you needing to replace the entire lock assembly. Luckily, it is entirely possible for an automotive locksmith to be able to craft a new key that you can use to gain access to your vehicle. In fact, many of these professionals will offer emergency services that can allow you to have a new key made within a matter of hours.
Know Whether Your Key Is Programmable
Many modern vehicles are equipped with programmable keys. These keys can greatly increase the security of the vehicle by making it harder for a person to easily breach the lock. However, it can pose challenges when you are needing to get a new key made as the replacement will need to be programmed to match the vehicle. Due to this need, you will have to work with an automotive locksmith that is able to program replacement keys. Unfortunately, many individuals will be surprised to learn that their car's key is programmed as they may not have to do anything special when they are using the key. However, many programmable keys will utilize a transceiver and receiver system that will allow the key to communicating with the lock automatically through the use of radio frequencies.
Have Proof Of Vehicle Ownership
As with any other time that you are needing a new copy of your car's key made, you will need to be able to provide the automotive locksmith with proof of ownership for your vehicle. For most drivers, this will not be an issue. However, if you have misplaced these documents and can not wait for replacements, you may still be able to get a copy of the key made by visiting your dealership. The dealership that sold you the vehicle will have a record of the transaction, which may allow you to confirm ownership by presenting a government-issued identification. However, this option can be both more expensive and less convenient than a mobile locksmith service, which can make it beneficial to try this option first.
Contact a locksmith like Roland Park Lock And Key to learn more.