Car Key Replacement in Tacoma, WA

What car key replacement involves

When every key to a car is lost, a new one has to be cut to the car's locks and, on most newer vehicles, programmed so the immobilizer accepts it. Push-button cars need a new smart key paired to the car. Because a new key gives full access to the vehicle, papers that show the car is yours matter.

Papers that show the car is yours

Have one of these ready, together with a photo ID in the same name:

• the vehicle title
• the current registration
• a lease or loan document that names you

If those papers are inside the locked car, say so in your request. If the name or address on them is out of date, your state motor-vehicle agency is where to correct it. If the car is registered to a business or a relative, say so and name who can confirm it.

Where the car waits in Tacoma

On streets inside Tacoma's Residential Parking Zones, a car without a permit may park for a two-hour stay during the zone's operating times. A car stranded without keys can sit longer than that, especially if a key for that model has to be ordered. If you are visiting someone who lives in the zone, ask your host about a guest pass; each annual permit includes ten of them.

Details to gather

1. The VIN, printed on the dashboard at the base of the windshield on the driver's side, on the driver-side door jamb and on the registration.
2. Year, make, model and trim, and whether the car starts with a turn key or a push button.
3. The title or registration and a matching photo ID.
4. Any remaining key or fob, even a broken one, and the key code tag if the dealer supplied one.
5. Where the car is: the street and cross street, and whether it is on the street, in a driveway or in a lot.

If a working key is left and you need another, see key fob programming. If the key is simply locked inside, car lockout is the page you want. For the service overview, open car key replacement; for the city, Tacoma.