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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions, or out of sight altogether. If they do, replacing keys isn't as expensive or difficult as you think. It is common to obtain an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually located on your registration or title certificate. Lost Keys It used to be a major hassle when you lost your car keys. You could visit the dealership and pay the small amount and get a new key. With the advances in anti-theft as well as car security technology the process is no longer an option. Today, the procedure to replace a lost car key can be a lot more costly and time consuming. The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The older, basic metal “insert and turn” keys aren't popular in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. You can determine the kind of key in your car by looking at the key ring, or by calling your dealer. The next step is to know your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is found on the door jambs or the windshield washer reservoir. It can also be located in the owner's manual or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths are usually capable of helping you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also one of the quickest and most affordable options. You can also contact an employee at the local hardware store to create a copy of your car key. If auto key replacements have the appropriate key blanks, they'll usually do it for most automobile models and manufactures. You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They will most likely be able assist you with the process of losing your car keys, and they can also usually provide a new transponder in the event that it is needed. Some car insurance providers even offer a car key replacement service as an added benefit. The cost can be expensive particularly when you lose a digital key fob. It is recommended to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it available at all times. Stolen Keys If you are worried about your car being stolen, it's essential to report the loss as soon as you notice it. This will ensure that the key will not be used by an unauthorized person and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition or door, as well as scratches and much more. You can also make a police report which could be helpful in identifying the person who stole your key. One of the most effective methods to guard yourself against theft is to buy a high-quality, car-specific key fob. These are not only more secure than traditional keys however, they also include features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. It is advisable to always keep an extra fob at home in case you lose the keys to your car. It is possible to replace a key that's not an fob, however it takes longer and requires more effort. The blank key has to be cut and the key programmed to work with the security system in your car. A locksmith with the right tools and knowledge can do this, but it's usually more expensive than replacing the lost key fob. Another option is to purchase a new key at the dealership. This is more expensive however it is an option that is safer because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that will help to protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which is helpful if you have to submit an investigation in the event of theft. In certain instances, you might have to take your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. It's usually a simple procedure, but it could differ according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and an ID photo that is valid, as well as a copy of the registration or title of your vehicle so that the technician can verify the ownership of your vehicle. Key Damage If you have a smart key that locks your car's doors and opens it, a damaged key fob could cause issues. In these cases you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob can do its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and last only a short time. Many people carry an extra car key. If a key fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. If the battery doesn't function, you may have to replace the key fob. In this situation, it is best to bring the key fob to the dealership. They'll have the tools required to create a new key fob and will also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys wear down with regular use, but can be damaged by many different circumstances. Accidents such as dropping your key on a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door may result in cracks and dents. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again. A locksmith can fix this issue quickly and efficiently however, you should work with a professional. You should not attempt to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could cause further damage to your vehicle or your home. An effective way to prevent this type of problem is to keep your key in a secure place when it's not in use. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost, and also protect it from damage caused by elements. It is also recommended to invest in a protective case for your key to further shield it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from being worn down or even damaged completely. Keys are missing Keys It's frustrating to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a child at the supermarket, placed on the table where you ate lunch or left in your pocket while walking your dog, you feel as if you've lost your most important personal possession. If your keys are the only means to get you where you need to go, it can become an actual crisis. Relax before you panic, and try these tricks. Check immediately where you typically put your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or get lost under something, so take a check those spots first. Then, move to the next location and so on. You may be surprised find them in a spot 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 dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped onto a metal plate that is located on the dashboard. It's also included in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep an extra. You may have hidden it in a convenient location at home, or even given it to a roommate or family member. You can also contact the police in your area to see whether they've handed over any keys. It's not a bad idea to ask for help at your work or school, too. You never know who could have found your keys and be willing to return them.