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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. If they do, replacing them isn't nearly as costly or difficult as you might think. You can usually obtain a spare key using your vehicle identification (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate. Lost Keys It was the case that losing your car keys was a huge hassle. You could just go to the local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and receive an alternate key. No longer, thanks to the latest technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The procedure to replace a lost car key can be much more expensive and time consuming. The kind of car key you have is a significant element in the cost you pay for the replacement. Older basic metal “insert and turn” keys aren't common in modern cars and therefore will be more affordable to replace. You can determine the kind of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by calling your dealer. Next, you will need to know your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also found in the owner's guide or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths are usually able to help you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also one of the most efficient and affordable options. You can also ask an associate at your local hardware store to create copies of your car key. They usually can do this for most makes and models of vehicles in the event that they have the appropriate key blanks. You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They can assist you in the process of replacing a lost car key and will typically be in a position to supply the transponder replacement. Certain insurance companies provide car key replacement as an option. However, the costs can be quite high, particularly in the event of losing a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to prevent this is to always have an extra key on hand and keep it in a safe location. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are concerned about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key will not be used by unauthorized people that could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You can also file an official police report that could aid in identifying the person who took your key. A premium car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to safeguard yourself against theft. These key fobs are not only more secure, they also come with features like trunk release remote engine starts and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your car with simply pressing the fob. You should always have an extra fob at home in case you lose the keys to your car. A key that's not an actual fob can be replaced, but it will take longer and require more effort. car key replacements of the key needs to be cut and the key needs to be programmed to ensure that it can be used with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right tools and experience can do this, however it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob. Another option is to obtain a new key at the dealership. It's more expensive but the dealer has special equipment to help prevent your car from being taken. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which can be helpful if you have to submit an official police report in the event of theft. In certain situations, you might have to take your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. This is usually a quick procedure, but it could depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your keys along with an ID with a valid photo and the original of your car's title or registration so that the technician is aware that you are the owner. Key Damage A damaged key fob could cause issues if you've got a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these cases you'll require a replacement to ensure that the key fob is able to perform its task. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail and have a limited lifespan. Many people carry an additional car key. If a key fob isn't working, the battery is typically dead. If the battery doesn't work you may have to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually best to bring the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the tools needed to create an entirely new key fob. They will also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys wear out over time with regular use, but can also be damaged by various causes. Inaccidents such as dropping your keys on a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door may result in cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use or impossible to use. A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and easily but it's essential to use a qualified professional. It is not safe to try to repair the broken key on your own. This could result in further damage to your vehicle or your home. Place your key in a secure place when not in use to avoid this issue. This can lower the likelihood of it being stolen or lost and help keep your key from becoming damaged by elements outside. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help to keep it safe from damage and weather. This can help to prevent your key from being worn down or even damaged completely. Keys are missing Keys It's a pain to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a child in the grocery store or left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch or left in your pocket while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most important personal item. When keys are the only means of getting to where you're going, it can be a real emergency. Take a deep breath before you panic and try these suggestions. Make sure you check where you normally place your keys, or at least the last time you've had them. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or end up beneath something, so make sure to look in those places first. Then, move to the next area, and the next. You might be surprised to find them in places you didn't expect. Note down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information to contact your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN is located on the driver-side door post or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also included in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, go to it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep an extra. You might have hid it in an accessible place at home or handed it to a roommate or family member. You can also contact the police in your area to find out whether they've surrendered any keys. It's not an ideal idea to inquire around at your workplace or at school, too. You never know who might have found your keys and be willing to return them.