Order Key Fob by VIN Number: Your Ultimate Guide to Car Key Replacement

Losing your car keys or key fob can be a stressful experience. Fortunately, replacing them doesn’t have to be a major hassle. Did you know you can order a key fob by VIN number? This method offers a convenient way to get a replacement key, especially when you’ve lost all your keys and need a quick solution. Automotive locksmiths and dealerships offer this service, allowing you to obtain a new key fob specifically cut for your vehicle using just your VIN.

Understanding the Process of Ordering a Key Fob by VIN

Ordering a key fob by VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) leverages your car’s unique identification to create a precise replacement. Your VIN is like your car’s fingerprint, and it holds the key code information necessary to cut a new, functional key fob. Locksmiths, like us at keyfobx.com, can use this VIN to access the manufacturer’s database, retrieve the specific key code for your vehicle, and then cut a key fob that matches your car’s original specifications.

This process is particularly helpful when you don’t have a spare key to duplicate. Instead of needing to physically dismantle locks or have your car towed, you can simply provide your VIN and proof of ownership to get the ball rolling on your key fob replacement.

What are the benefits of ordering a key fob by VIN number?

Convenience: Order your replacement key fob from the comfort of your home. No need to visit a dealership immediately.
Speed: In many cases, ordering by VIN can expedite the key replacement process compared to other methods, especially if you need the key mailed to you.
Accuracy: Using the VIN ensures the key fob is cut to the exact specifications of your vehicle’s original key, minimizing compatibility issues.
Accessibility: This service is available through both locksmiths and dealerships, giving you options based on your needs and location.

What You Need to Order Your Key Fob by VIN

To order a key fob by VIN number, you’ll need to gather a few essential pieces of information to ensure a smooth and accurate process. Providing these details upfront will help the locksmith or dealership quickly process your request and get your replacement key fob to you as soon as possible.

Essential Information:

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This is the most crucial piece of information. Your VIN is a 17-character unique identifier for your car. You can typically find it in several locations:
- Dashboard: Look at the driver’s side dashboard where it meets the windshield. You should be able to read it from outside the car.
- Insurance Card: Your VIN is usually printed on your car insurance card.
- Vehicle Title and Registration: Official documents like your car title and registration will also list the VIN.
Vehicle Year, Make, and Model: While the VIN is the most critical, providing the year, make, and model of your car (e.g., 2023 Honda Civic) helps confirm the correct key fob type and ensures accuracy.
Proof of Ownership: To prevent theft and ensure legitimate key replacements, locksmiths and dealerships require proof that you own the vehicle. Acceptable forms of proof usually include:
- Vehicle Registration: Your current car registration document.
- Vehicle Title: Your car’s title document.
- Insurance Card: Your car insurance card, often accepted in conjunction with a government-issued photo ID.
- Government-Issued Photo ID: A driver’s license or passport to verify your identity matches the ownership documents.

Cost Considerations for Ordering a Key Fob by VIN

The cost to order a key fob by VIN number can vary based on several factors. Understanding these cost components can help you budget for your replacement and make informed decisions.

Factors Affecting the Cost:

Key Fob Type: Basic keys, transponder keys, remote key fobs, and smart keys all have different manufacturing complexities and security features, affecting their price. More advanced key fobs with remote start or keyless entry will generally cost more.
Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury car brands or vehicles with advanced security systems may have more expensive key fobs and higher key code retrieval fees from the manufacturer.
Key Code Retrieval Fee: Locksmiths often need to pay a fee to access the key code from the vehicle manufacturer using the VIN. This fee is factored into the overall cost.
Key Cutting Labor: The labor involved in cutting the physical key blade to match your car’s specifications is another cost component.
Programming (if needed): Many modern key fobs require programming to communicate with your car’s immobilizer system. This programming service adds to the overall cost.
Mailing and Delivery: If you’re ordering online and need the key fob mailed to you, shipping costs will be included.

Typical Cost Range: Generally, you can expect the cost to order a key fob by VIN number to range from approximately $89 to $179. This is an estimated range and can fluctuate based on the factors mentioned above. The best way to get an accurate price is to request a quote from a locksmith or use an online form to get an estimate based on your specific vehicle details.

Locksmiths vs. Dealers: Who Should You Choose to Order Your Key Fob by VIN?

When you need to order a key fob by VIN number, you have two primary options: automotive locksmiths and car dealerships. Both can provide this service, but there are key differences to consider when making your choice.

Automotive Locksmiths:

Cost-Effective: Locksmiths are often more affordable than dealerships for key fob replacements. They have lower overhead costs and can typically offer more competitive pricing.
Convenience and Mobile Service: Many locksmiths offer mobile services, meaning they can come to your location to cut and program your key fob. This eliminates the need to tow your car to a dealership.
Specialized Expertise: Automotive locksmiths specialize in car key and security systems. They have the tools and knowledge to handle a wide range of vehicles and key types.
Faster Service: Locksmiths can often provide quicker turnaround times compared to dealerships, especially for on-site services.

Car Dealerships:

Brand Specialists: Dealerships are experts in their specific car brand. For certain makes, especially high-end or European brands, they might be necessary due to manufacturer restrictions on key programming.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Keys: Dealerships typically provide OEM key fobs, which are the same brand and quality as your original keys.
Warranty Considerations: In some cases, using a dealership for key replacement might be preferred to maintain your car’s warranty, although independent locksmith services generally do not void warranties.
Potentially Longer Wait Times and Higher Costs: Dealerships can sometimes be more expensive and have longer wait times due to their service scheduling and overhead.

When to Choose a Locksmith: For most common car makes and models, a qualified automotive locksmith is an excellent choice for ordering a key fob by VIN number. They offer a balance of cost-effectiveness, convenience, and expertise.

When to Consider a Dealer: For luxury European brands like BMW, Audi, or VW, or if you specifically require an OEM key and are less concerned about cost, a dealership might be necessary. Also, for very new car models, locksmith access to key codes might be initially limited, making dealerships the only option in the short term.

Limitations of Ordering a Car Key Fob by VIN

While ordering a car key fob by VIN number is a convenient solution, it’s important to be aware of its limitations. This method isn’t foolproof and may not work in every situation.

Potential Issues:

Vehicle Age: Manufacturer key code databases are not always available for very old vehicles (typically pre-1988, but varies by manufacturer). For older cars, alternative key origination methods are needed.
Replaced Locks: If your car’s ignition cylinder or door locks have been replaced at some point (e.g., after a theft), the original key code associated with your VIN in the database will no longer match the current locks on your car. In such cases, a key fob ordered by VIN will not work. This service is usually non-refundable due to this possibility.
Transponder Key Programming: For most cars manufactured after 2010, and many before, the key fob will likely be a transponder key or smart key. While you can order the key fob by VIN number, it will likely need to be programmed to your car separately to start the engine. A locksmith can typically handle this programming on-site. A simple metal key without a plastic head is the only type guaranteed not to need programming.

Alternative Key Fob Replacement Methods When VIN Doesn’t Work

If ordering a key fob by VIN number isn’t possible due to the limitations mentioned above, experienced automotive locksmiths have alternative methods to create a replacement key.

Alternative Techniques:

Code Retrieval from Locks: Sometimes, the key code needed to cut a new key is stamped directly on the ignition cylinder or door lock itself. Locksmiths can extract this code and use it to create a key.
Decoding Existing Locks: Locksmiths can disassemble a door lock or trunk lock and “decode” the internal wafers to determine the necessary key cuts. This information is then used to cut a new key fob. In some cases, the door lock may contain most, but not all, of the key cuts needed for the ignition, requiring the locksmith to be on-site to complete the process.
On-site Key Origination: For situations where no key code is available and locks need to be decoded, a locksmith will need to come to your vehicle’s location to perform these procedures.

Conclusion: Order Your Key Fob by VIN for a Fast and Convenient Solution

Ordering a key fob by VIN number is a powerful and convenient way to replace lost car keys. It offers speed, accuracy, and accessibility, making it an ideal solution for many car owners. While there are limitations, particularly with older vehicles or replaced locks, for a large percentage of modern cars, this method provides a straightforward path to getting back on the road.

When you need a replacement key fob, consider the benefits of ordering by VIN. For a fast, reliable, and professional service, contact keyfobx.com today. We can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you order your key fob by VIN number quickly and efficiently. Don’t let lost keys keep you stranded – get your replacement key fob ordered now!