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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are notorious for disappearing into pockets, couch cushions or even out of sight. But if they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may appear. You may be able to get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge inconvenience. You could just visit your local dealer, pay a little bit of money, and receive an alternate key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology the process is no longer feasible. Now, the process to replace the lost car key could be a lot more costly and time consuming. The type of car key that you have is an important aspect in the price you will have to pay for an alternative. The older, basic metal “insert and turn” keys are not very popular in modern cars which is why they are more affordable to replace. You can identify the type of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by calling your dealer. The next thing to find is the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured by the manufacturer, and can be found by checking the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir of fluid. It can also be located in the owner's manual or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths are typically capable of helping you replace a lost car key. They are also one of the most efficient and affordable alternatives. You can also contact an associate at the local hardware store to make copies of your car key. They usually can do this for most kinds of automobiles in the event that they have the correct key blanks. You can also call roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to help you with the process of losing your car keys and will generally provide a new transponder if required. Some insurance companies offer a car key replacement service as an add-on. key car replacement can be expensive especially when you lose a digital key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep a spare key available and keep it in a safe location. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are worried about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key can't be used by an unauthorised person and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also file a police report, which can be useful in identifying whoever took your key. A high-quality car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to protect yourself against theft. These key fobs are not only more secure, but also come with features like trunk release, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which let you lock and unlock your car with simply tapping the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob home so that you're not stranded without your car should you lose your keys. It is possible to replace a key that's not a fob, but it requires more time and effort. The blank key needs to be cut and then the key programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle. This can be accomplished by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and expertise however, it's typically more expensive than replacing your lost key fob. A replacement key is available at the dealership. It will cost more however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of the vehicle's identification number which is useful for filing an official police report in the event that your car is ever stolen. In some cases, you might need to bring your new key to the dealership and get it programmed to your vehicle. It is usually a simple procedure, however it may vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and a valid photo identification, as well as an original registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can verify the ownership of your vehicle. Key Damage A damaged key fob could cause issues if you've got a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these instances you'll need to replace the key fob to ensure it is able to perform its function. It's not unusual for smart keys to break and they have a limited lifespan. Many people have an extra car key. The majority of the time, when a key fob doesn't working, it is due to its battery dying. You could try replacing the battery, but if this isn't working, you might require replacing the entire key fob. In this instance it is recommended to bring the key fob to a dealership. They'll have the necessary equipment to create a new key fob and they can also reprogram your vehicle. Keys are prone to wear and tear with use, but they can be damaged in various ways too. Accidents like dropping your key on a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door can result in cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future. A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and effectively however, you should work with an expert. It's not recommended to try to repair damaged keys on your own. This can result in further damage to your vehicle or your home. One way to avoid this type of problem is to keep your key in a safe place when it's not being used. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost, and will also shield it from damage caused by elements. You should also think about investing in a case to protect your key to protect it from accidents or weather. This will prevent your key from getting worn down or damaged. Keys that are lost Keys There are few things more frustrating than losing your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most valuable personal item, regardless of whether they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, tossed on your kitchen table while you ate lunch, or fell out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. And when the keys are your only means of getting to where you're headed, it could be a real emergency. But before you get scared, take a deep breath, and follow these steps: Check immediately where you typically place your keys, or at a minimum the last time you had them. Look first in the places in which they may have “drifted” or gotten lost under something. Then, you can move to the next spot. You might be surprised to discover them in a place you didn't expect. Write down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll require this information later on, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a metal plate in the dashboard. You can also locate it in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, take it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to have a spare. You might have hid it in an accessible place at home, or even given it to a family member or roommate. It is also a good idea to contact the police in your area to see if they've turned in keys. You can also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know when someone has found your missing keys and might be willing to return them to you.