How to Deal With Lost Car Keys and Fobs
It may be tempting to buy a replacement key online or in an auto parts shop for those who have lost their Volkswagen car key. However, unless you're dealing with a reputable locksmith specializing in Volkswagen car fobs and keys, the replacement keys will not work!
The majority of modern VWs have a remote or intelligent "fob key" to start the vehicle. These keys need to be programmed and this is only possible at the dealership or by an automotive locksmith.
Lost Keys
Volkswagens are among the most recognized cars on the road. The Volkswagen car manufacturer produces modern vehicles, classics like the Beetle and Microbus, and everything in between. Unfortunately even the most sophisticated, "smart" VW keys can get lost or broken. G28 Car Keys made of same thin metal and fragile material as other keys, regardless of how solid they feel.
It's possible that your only option in case you lose your Volkswagen key is to go to the dealer and pay for the replacement. However, that doesn't have to be the case! In many instances, you can have a new key cut at an automotive locksmith for less. A locksmith can also cut a Volkswagen Key without your vehicle being at their shop if they have the VIN number of your vehicle. (VIN).
If your Volkswagen is equipped with fob remote "push to start" intelligent key, it needs to be programmed to function. You can program your new key fob with an existing spare key fob. First make sure you lock the driver's door and shut all other doors. Then you can press the unlock button on the spare key fob 5 times in a row, with about one second interval. This will cause the horn of your car to honk, and begin the programming process. After 6 seconds, take out your spare key and turn off the ignition to finish the program.
Keys that are damaged Keys
You may be noticing that your key fob isn't working properly. It could be that the battery is not functioning properly or it's due to another issue. If you wish to prevent this from happening, you should consider getting new batteries for your key fob now. You'll save money and time in the long term.
If your Volkswagen key does not turn in the ignition, it could be a sign that there is an issue with the ignition system. This is due to the fact that keys are inserted and rotated so often that tiny parts in the ignition could get stuck.
Luckily it's a simple fix. You'll need a replacement key case (which is available separately from your VW key) and the proper key code for your car. You can determine the key code by visiting your dealer or searching on the internet. You'll need to bring couple of documents to verify ownership.
Contact an Volkswagen dealership or locksmith immediately if your key is damaged. They can order you a new key and program it for your vehicle. They will probably need your VIN along with other documents such as your registration, title or ID. It will be more difficult to request a new key if do not have these documents.
Locked Outside Your Car
There are steps you can take to avoid a disaster in the event you lose your car keys. First, make sure that you have a designated spot to store your car keys when you get home. This should be a place that you can easily spot it. This will ensure that you don't risk losing it in a purse or some other unattractive place in which case you might overlook it and then not be able to locate it when you need it.
Immobilisers are installed in the majority of modern VW vehicles to prevent the engine from starting in the event that the wrong key is used. To do this, the key contains an embedded microchip which responds to an a specific signal generated by the vehicle's computer. If the chip fails to receive the correct response the engine won't start, and it may even shut down immediately.
You can resolve this issue by purchasing a new Volkswagen key remote or key fob from a dealer or third party locksmith. You'll have to take your vehicle to a dealer to have the key programmed. This could be costly and time-consuming, especially when you are miles away from home. You can employ a mobile locksmith to do the job.
Replacement Keys
If you've lost keys or were stolen, having one spare can save you lots of stress. Calling an agent for a replacement can be expensive and time-consuming. Locksmiths are able to provide a better solution. They can cut and program a brand new key to your Volkswagen car, allowing you to get moving faster.
It could be that your key fob needs a new battery. This is particularly relevant if it takes several clicks to unlock your Volkswagen car, or if the key fob won't turn on at any time. Even even if your VW has a smart remote control or keyless entry, it's crucial to always carry an extra. So, if you lose your primary key, you'll still be able to drive home.
If you are in need of a replacement Volkswagen key, make sure that the locksmith you choose is equipped with a machine to cut transponders. This is crucial because many modern Volkswagen keys contain chips that need to be coded for the vehicle to be started. Some Volkswagen dealers don't keep records on older cars so you may have to bring your car in for recoding if you lose your vehicle keys. An automotive locksmith can avoid this by using the VIN number to identify the correct key for your Volkswagen car.