Every car comes with a VIN number which is a unique code assigned to each vehicle, located on the dashboard near the windshield or the driver’s side door frame, and used for vehicle identification, registration, and tracking purposes.
The VIN number consists of 17 characters which include both numbers and letters, with each position in the VIN having something that provides information about the vehicle’s make, model, year, country of manufacture, etc.
However, when it comes to getting a key made from VIN number, the VIN serves as a reference point for obtaining key-related information from the vehicle manufacturer or a qualified locksmith. So, where can I get a key made from VIN number?
You can get a key made from a VIN number by contacting your vehicle’s dealership or a professional locksmith, providing them with your VIN number and proof of ownership to start the key replacement process.
Where Can I Get a Key Made from a VIN Number?
The places you can get a key made from VIN number are:
1. From Your Vehicle Manufacturer
One of the most reliable and straightforward ways to get a key made from VIN number is to reach out to the vehicle manufacturer directly.
Contact their customer service or support line and provide them with the VIN along with any other required details.
They may ask for proof of ownership, such as registration documents or other identification, to ensure that you are the legitimate owner of the vehicle.
Once the necessary verification is completed, the manufacturer can provide you with the key code or direct you to an authorized dealership or locksmith.
2. From the Car Dealership
If contacting the manufacturer proves challenging or time-consuming, you can visit an authorized dealership for your vehicle brand.
Dealerships often have the necessary resources and tools to obtain key codes based on the VIN.
However, be prepared to provide proof of ownership, such as the vehicle’s registration and your identification, to ensure the process is legitimate and secure.
The car dealership may be able to cut a new key for you or guide you to a local locksmith who can assist.
3. From Professional Locksmith
In cases where reaching the manufacturer or visiting a dealership is not practical, you can contact a professional locksmith to cut the key for you using your car’s VIN.
However, not all locksmiths offer this service, so it’s important to find one with experience in automotive key replacement and provide him with the VIN, proof of ownership, and any other required documentation.
He will then use specialized tools and software to decode the key cuts associated with your vehicle.
4. From Automotive Locksmith Services
Some cities have specialized automotive locksmith services that can help you with key replacement.
Look for licensed and certified professionals to ensure the security and quality of their services.
Nonetheless, some online services claim to provide key replacement services based on the VIN. Exercise caution and thoroughly research any online service before providing sensitive information to them.
Verify their legitimacy, customer reviews, and security measures to ensure that your information remains confidential and secure.
Trust me, you don’t want your information out there because you just want to replace a key using your VIN number. You may end up meeting the wrong people whose reliability is not guaranteed.
Documents to Provide When Making a Car Key Replacement
When making a car key replacement, whether through a dealership, professional locksmith, or other service provider, you will be required to provide certain documents and information to verify your ownership of the vehicle.
The requirements may vary depending on the service provider and local regulations, but here are common items you may need to provide:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): The VIN is a unique code assigned to your vehicle. It’s usually located on the dashboard near the windshield or the driver’s side door frame. Providing the VIN is important for generating the correct key code.
- Proof of Ownership: To prevent unauthorized key duplication, you’ll likely need to provide proof that you are the legitimate owner of the vehicle.
Common documents for proof of ownership include:
- Vehicle registration certificate
- Car Title or pink slip
- Bill of sale
- Loan or lease agreement (if applicable)
- Identification: Valid government-issued identification is often required to ensure that the person requesting the key replacement is the rightful owner. Common forms of ID include a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID card.
- Vehicle Make, Model, and Year: Providing accurate details about your vehicle, including the make, model, and year, helps the service provider ensure that they are creating the correct key for your specific vehicle.
- Key Code (if available): If you have a key code that came with your vehicle’s original documentation, providing it can expedite the key replacement process. The key code is a series of numbers that corresponds to the specific cuts on your key.
- Your Contact Information: Ensure that you provide accurate contact information, including your phone number and address, so the service provider can reach you and return your key or inform you when the replacement is ready.
Endeavor to check with the service provider about their requirements before starting the key replacement process.
Different providers may have slightly different protocols, and being well-prepared with the necessary documents will help ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
Conclusion
You can contact your car’s manufacturer, visit an authorized dealership, consult a professional locksmith, or cautiously check online services, to get your car key made from VIN number.
Irrespective of the method you choose, you may be asked to provide the car’s proof of ownership to ensure the security of the key replacement process. Avoid any online key replacement services that are not trusted to safeguard your vehicle and personal information.
