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How To Get A Replacement Car Key Without The Original?

  • alvishgajera
  • Jun 21
  • 5 min read

Updated: Jun 26

Losing your car key can be a stressful experience, particularly when you don’t have any spare keys. Whether it slipped out of your pocket, was misplaced or stolen, or simply disappeared. Not having the right car key doesn’t mean you stuck there forever.


Fortunately, there are various ways to get the best replacement key even without the original. In this blog, we will guide you through every step of the process, the options available, and what to expect in terms of cost, time, and convenience. We start with the first step, where information about the vehicles is gathered.

Step 1: Collect All Information About Your Vehicle

Before you get replacement car keys, you will require the basic essential details about your vehicle. This helps the Auto locksmith or dealerships to identify the correct key types for your vehicles. Here are the things that you need to know.

Vehicle identification Number: Found on the dashboard on the driver’s side and on your car’s registration and insurance documents.

  • Create a model and year of your car.

  • Title and registration documents for proving the ownership.

  • The driver’s license and the ID are required.

This information will help any locksmith or dealership match your key with the vehicle’s specifications.

Step 2: Determine The Type Of Your Keys

There are various types of car keys and the replacement process entirely depends on which one of your vehicles is used.

Traditional Mechanical Key

Older vehicles, mostly before 1998 are used a simple metal key without any electronics. These can be easily duplicated by a locksmith.

Transponder Key

This type of key contains a chip that communicates with the car’s ignition system. Even if a duplicate is cut, it won’t start the vehicles unless the programs are copied entirely.

Car Key Fob Replacement

Modern cars often use a remote key fob that both unlocks the doors and starts the engine.

Smart Key and Keyless Entry


These are proximity-based keys used in push-start systems. They’re the most expensive to replace and often require dealership programming.


Step 3: Pick Your Replacement Option

Once you know what type of key you need, you can choose from several replacement options:

This is one of the most convenient and cost-effective methods, especially if you’re locked out or unable to drive. Taking the help of Murray Avenue Locksmith is they can come to your locations and usually a better options  than a dealership. They can cut and program most of the key types and are available 24/7 in emergencies.

How Murray Avenue Locksmith Can Help

Contact Murray Avenue Locksmith when

  • You’ve lost all keys and need fast access.

  • Your car uses a traditional or transponder key.

  • You want a fast and instant solution.

Step 4: Order a Car Replacement Key 

Are you in Pittsburgh and searching for a local locksmith for car keys? There are many options to order a car replacement key. You can simply call the (412) 422-2004 number and order the actual fobs that can be cut and programmed by the emergency locksmith services. If you know the details of the cars you can order the car replacement keys. But if you do not know the type of the car, there is a chance of ordering the wrong key type. Always double-check the compatibility with your vehicle before ordering the right key for your car.

Step 5: Programming the Key

Most of the modern car keys require programming and without it, your car may not start even if the key is physically cut. Some of the older models allowing DIY programming are using a specific sequence, like turning the ignition on and off multiple times. The diagnostic tool programming and the newer models need the specialized equipment, which is typically available in the Murray Avenue locksmith services. Smart keys and keyless fobs always require right and proper programming.

Step 6: Right-Size Key Cutting

If you are buying a blank key online or from a locksmith, you need to have it physically cut to match your car’s ignition. Most of the reputed locksmith service providers, like Murray Avenue Locksmith, need to physically cut and match your car’s ignition. Most of the locksmiths and dealerships use laser and mechanical cutting machines that match the key grooves to your car’s locks.

Can I Get a Replacement Without Proof of Ownership?

Every locksmith service provider is going to replace a car key unless you can prove ownership. This protects against theft-like incidents.

Required documents include:

  • Driver’s license

  • Registration or title

  • Insurance papers (as a supporting document)


FAQs

How Long Does Murray Avenue Locksmith For Car Key Replacement Going To Take?

This time is entirely dependent on the types of the keys.  So to get a better ideas call (412) 422-2004 and ask for the emergency services of Murray Avenue locksmith services.


Is it possible to get a replacement car key if I don’t have the original?

Yes, it is possible to get the replacements  car keys even if the original key is lost and unavailable. Murray Avenue Locksmith offers emergency locksmith services for key replacement. Our locksmith services can create a new key by using a vehicle’s unique identification number VIN along with the other essential information like the make,models and manufacturing year of the car. However, you are going to need valid proof of ownership, like the car’s registration and the titles, along with a valid ID before the new keys  can be issued.


Can  Murray Avenue locksmith services replace a smart key or remote fob without the original?

Yes, our locksmith experts are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and Transponder key programming systems that allow them to replace smart keys and remote fobs. They can also find key codes based on your VIN and cut a new key on-site. Feel free to contact our locksmith services.


What happens if I lose a key for a vehicle with no physical ignition, just a start/stop button?

Vehicles with a full keyless ignition system depend on electronic proximity detection. Losing the original key for such a system means you will need a smart fob programmed specifically to your car’s computer. Replacing this type of key requires specialized diagnostic tools and authentication from the manufacturer. You will get the right ideas when you actually call us and ask for the help and provide the right information about the car and verify the car’s information.


Can I prevent someone from using the lost key if I find out it was stolen?

Yes, you can suspect that your keys have been stolen rather than lost. The first action that you must do is you must act immediately and ask the murray avenue locksmith dealer to reprogram your vehicle’s security system to remove the old key code from the present car’s memory. This will ensure that even if someone finds or attempts to use the older key, it will no longer work to start your vehicles. For the extra protection, consider having the locks changed, particularly for the older vehicles.





 
 
 

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