How to Replace Car Key by VIN Number Online?

Losing your car key can be irritating but did you know you can replace it online by entering your vehicle’s VIN? With this easy way, you can order a new key without having to visit a dealership. 

By giving your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), you can quickly verify your vehicle’s information and get the appropriate replacement key. It’s a convenient and cheap solution that saves you time and effort. Read this article to learn how to get a replacement car key without the original through VIN.

What Is a VIN Number?

Every vehicle is allocated a unique 17-character identifier known as the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). It is like a fingerprint for your vehicle that reveals important information such as its make, model, year of manufacturing, and more. 

The VIN is used for many purposes, including recording the vehicle’s history and assuring proper auto key replacement. The VIN is normally found on the dashboard or within the driver’s side door frame on a label or metal plate.

Why Replace Your Car Key Online?

Replacing your car key online can be beneficial in the following ways:

Convenience

This process allows you to change your car key without leaving your home. All that is required from you is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which you will need to start this process. As everything is conducted online, you avoid having to schedule an appointment or stand in line at a dealership.

Cost-Effective

Online car key replacements are less expensive than those in dealerships since they reduce the overhead costs of the physical store. Dealerships usually overcharge for their time and convenience, but an online service delivers competitive prices. Choosing an online service would result in more affordable choices, especially basic keys.

Time-Saving

Replacing a car key online is faster than going to the dealership, mainly because they have long lines and crowds. When you submit your VIN and payment details, most services will ship it to you immediately. Depending on the service, you can receive your new key in just a few days.

No Need to Make a Physical Visit

You can avoid the inconvenience of traveling to a dealership or locksmith by ordering a key replacement online. This is especially helpful if you’re busy or have limited mobility. All you need is your VIN and the replacement key will be delivered to your door.

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Replace Car Key by VIN Number Online – 5 Simple Steps

Here is how to replace car key by VIN number online:

1) Find a Reliable Online Service

Look for well-reviewed and trusted websites that specialize in car key replacement. Many services offer to replace keys using your VIN, so make sure you choose one according to your car’s make and model. Check customer feedback to ensure the service is reliable and provides secure transactions.

2) Enter Your VIN and Vehicle Info 

Your VIN can be located on your car’s dashboard or inside the driver’s side door. This allows you to identify your vehicle. Once you have the VIN, you will also need to enter information such as your car’s make, model, and year. This is done to ensure that the key replacement fits perfectly with your car.

3) Check Key Type

Find your key type and verify the key’s compatibility with your car’s specs by specifying what you are looking for. It can be a basic metal key, transponder, or key fob. This will allow the service to validate if the kind of key you specified fits your vehicle’s specifications from the information entered. 

4) Payment and Confirmation 

Once you choose the key type, you will be directed to a payment page. Additional fees for cutting or programming can be applied and some services charge extra fees, so check all the pricing breakdowns well. Upon paying, you will be given an order confirmation with all the details of your replacement key request.

5) Get Your Key

The service will cut and program the key based on your provided information and then ship it directly to you. Delivery times depend on different factors, but most services offer tracking information so you can track the progress of your shipment. Depending on the service, the key can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to arrive.

Types of Car Keys You Can Replace Using Your VIN

There are many kinds of car keys that you can replace with a VIN. The most common types include:

Standard Metal Keys

These are the basic non-electric keys that unlock your car and start its engine. They are most common in older models or simple vehicles without a more advanced safety system. You can easily replace this type of key using your VIN on an online application.

Transponder Keys

These keys have a little chip within the key which communicates with the car’s ignition system to restrain theft. The key won’t start the engine unless it matches the specific car system. You can also replace these keys online by providing your VIN as the chip needs to be programmed with a code specific to your vehicle.

Remote Key Fobs 

A key fob is a small remote control that can lock, unlock, and sometimes start your car from a distance. These keys come with a transponder chip and remote functionality. If you lose a fob, you can get it replaced and reprogrammed through online services if you have your VIN and vehicle details.

Smart Keys

They are advanced electronic keys that allow for keyless entry and ignition. The smart key communicates wirelessly with your car’s system and most of the models come with features such as push-to-start buttons. Replacing a smart key requires programming which can be done online by posting your VIN online to match.

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What to Expect During the Key Replacement Process?

Here are some steps and things to expect when replacing your car key online:

Additional Costs for Programming or Cutting

Depending on the type of key you’re replacing, there can be extra costs for cutting or programming the new key. Transponder keys and smart keys require specialized programming to ensure they work with your car’s ignition system. 

Key Compatibility Check

This service checks if your new replacement key ordered is compatible with your vehicle before shipping. Therefore, this step secures the key to work well with your car’s system. Sometimes, you must provide a picture of your current key or its style to ensure compatibility.

Shipping and Delivery

After processing your replacement key, it will be cut and shipped to you. The replacement key can take a few days to a couple of weeks to arrive. This depends on the type of key and the service’s processing time.

Testing the Key 

After getting the replacement key, test it to confirm whether it is in good working condition. If it is a transponder key, try to start your car and verify whether the chip was programmed correctly. Test the locking, unlocking, and remote-start features for key fobs or smart keys to confirm whether they work properly.

Throughout the process, expect clear communication from the service provider including updates on your order status and tracking information. If any issues arise, most services offer customer support to help resolve any problems.

Risk Involved in Replacing Car Keys With VIN

While replacing your car key using your VIN online is convenient, there are some risks to consider:

Security Risks

By sharing your VIN online, you open your car to being stolen if the website isn’t secure or reliable. Moreover, giving your VIN to an untrusted service will compromise your personal and vehicle data. Choose only a reputable company that has safe payment and good customer reviews.

Incorrect Key Programming

It can be the case that the key you receive does not get programmed correctly for your car. Especially smart keys or fobs which require coding according to your car’s ignition system. If it doesn’t work, you’ll have to send it back. This can create a delay and even add additional costs.

Limited Compatibility

Not all vehicle models are supported by every online key replacement service. Some car brands or models require specific types of keys that online services can not be able to replace. It’s important to verify that the online service can handle your car’s key type before proceeding with the order.

Potential for Scams

Unfortunately, some fraudulent websites are posing as legitimate key replacement services. These sites can take your payment without providing a key or send you low-quality and incompatible keys. Always verify that the company is legitimate by checking customer reviews and confirming their credentials.

Knowing these risks will help you be more prepared for a smooth and secure key replacement.

What to Do If Your Replacement Key Doesn’t Work?

If your new car key fails to work well, don’t panic. Here is what you can do to troubleshoot and resolve the problem:

Check the Key for Damage

Check the key for any evident damage such as scratches or bending. Even slight damage can cause an issue with how the key operates. If your key looks damaged, call the replacement service and ask for a possible replacement.

Make Sure There Is Proper Programming 

Some modern car keys are transponder keys or key fobs that need programming to work with your car’s ignition system. If the key does not work, it is probably because it is not programmed correctly. You will need to call the service and have them reprogram your key or provide further assistance.

Verify the Type of Key

Reconfirm that the key you get is the right type for your vehicle. Make sure that it fits the description that you provided while placing the order. If the types do not match, you must ask for a replacement key suitable for your car.

Test the Key Again

Sometimes, keys can work or require a few attempts before functioning correctly. Try testing it several times, ensuring you’re using it properly. Insert the key into the ignition or use the remote features on a key fob again until you see progress.

Contact Customer Support

If your key still doesn’t work after all these steps, contact the service provider’s customer support team. Give them your order details and ask for a replacement or troubleshooting advice. Reputable services will usually work to resolve the issue and provide a solution.

The Future of Online Car Key Replacements

The future of online car key replacements seems positive as technology improves and simplifies the process. The demand for online key replacement services will increase as more cars use advanced security features such as smart keys and biometric systems. 

Mobile apps that allow customers to request key replacements straight from their phones will speed up and simplify the procedure. When car manufacturers use standardized key programming techniques, internet service providers can replace keys for more vehicles. 

This will result in more competitive rates, faster delivery times, and a lower chance of compatibility concerns.

Conclusion

Many car owners find it more convenient and cheap to replace car key by VIN number online. It saves time and ends the need to visit the dealership. However, it is important to select a reputable business to avoid problems with key compatibility and programming errors. 

By taking the necessary measures and properly following the procedure, you can soon receive a functional new key and return to the road.

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