Car Key Replacement in Lansing, MI

Papers that show the car is yours

A key that starts a car is a security item, so it helps to have proof of ownership on hand:

• Photo ID in your name.
• The registration or title. If the car was bought recently and the title is not yet in your name, bring the purchase paperwork. If the documents are lost, the state motor-vehicle agency can replace them.
• The VIN, printed on the registration and visible through the windshield at the base of the driver's side.
• The year, make and model, and whether the car starts with a turned key, a flip key or a push button.

If the registration is locked in the car, say so in the request.

Where the car is sitting

Location changes what a lost key means in Lansing.

• At the curb. Lansing Code Section 404.12 (Ordinance 1267) sets three snow emergency levels, and at Level 3 parking on city streets is barred day and night. A car with no working key cannot be moved out of the way, and an unmoved car can be ticketed and towed at the owner's expense. If a declaration has been announced on television or radio, mention it. This is general information, not legal advice.
• Behind the house. In Pleasant View/Risdale Park and Gier/Paulson Park, Design Lansing describes ranch and Minimal Traditional homes with rear garages. Say whether the car is in the garage or out front, and whether the garage can be opened.
• Away from home. For a store or workplace lot, give the lot name, the row and any security contact.

Lost every key, or need a spare?

Say whether any key for the car still works. Copying a working key is simpler than replacing the last one, and some cars need a working key present to add another. If the fob still starts the car but its buttons have stopped, key fob programming may be all you need.

If the lost keys shared a ring with your house keys, the home is exposed too; plan to have those locks rekeyed. The car key replacement page covers the service, and the Lansing page lists the snow emergency rules in full.