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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known for disappearing in pockets, couches or even out of sight. But if they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may seem. You can often get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually found on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It was a major inconvenience when you lost your car keys. You could go to the local dealership and pay a small amount of money, and get an alternative key. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the process to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be more costly and time-consuming. The kind of key you have will determine the price. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys aren't as common in modern vehicles, so they're cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify what kind of key you have in your car, which you will usually do by taking a look at the ring on your key or calling your dealer for specific instructions. The next step is to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or windshield washer fluid reservoir. You can also find it in the owner's manual or on a sticker under the driver's dashboard. Auto locksmiths are often equipped to assist you in replacing the car key that has been lost. They are also one of the most cost-effective and quick options. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they are able to make a duplicate of your key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they'll usually do it for most vehicle models and brands. You can also call roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to help you with the process of replacing your car key and usually provide a new transponder in the event that it is required. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an option. The costs can be high, particularly if you lose an electronic key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always have a spare key available and keep it in a safe location. Stolen Keys If you're worried about your car being stolen, it's crucial to report the loss immediately. This will help to ensure that the key is not used by unauthorized people, which could result in costly damages to your vehicle. vehicle key replacement can include damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and more. You can also file an official police report that may aid in identifying the person who took your key. A high-quality car-specific fob is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself from theft. These are not only more secure than traditional keys however, they also have 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's always recommended to keep an extra key fob at home to ensure that you're not stuck without your car in the event that you lose your keys. A key that's not an fob is still able to be replaced, but it will take longer and require more effort. The blank for the key has to be cut and the key needs to be programmed so that it works with your car's security system. Locksmiths with the right tools and knowledge can do this, however it is typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. Another option is to obtain a replacement key at the dealership. It will cost more however, it's a safer choice because the dealer has access to special equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy your vehicle's identification number, which is helpful for filing a police report if your car is ever stolen. In some instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a simple process, but can vary depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your keys, an acceptable photo ID, and the original of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician can verify that you are the owner. Key Damage A damaged key fob can cause issues if you've got a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and have a limited lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people carry a spare car key. The majority of the time, when a key fob isn't functioning, it's because the battery has failed. You may try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may need to replace the entire key fob. If this is the case, it's best to take your car key fob to a dealer. They'll have the tools needed to make an entirely new key fob. They will also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys will naturally wear away with use however, they can be damaged in a variety of ways too. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on a hard surface or securing it in a door may cause cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use or impossible. A locksmith can resolve this problem quickly and easily but it's essential to work with a professional who has the right qualifications. It's not recommended to attempt to repair the broken key by yourself. This can result in more damage to your vehicle or home. A good way to prevent this kind of issue is to keep your key in a secure location when not in use. This can lower the likelihood of it being lost or stolen and also help keep your key from getting damaged by elements outside. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help protect it against accidents and weather. This can help to prevent your key from wearing down or being completely damaged. Keys that are lost Keys There are few things more annoying than losing your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most valuable personal item, whether they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, tossed on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or slipped out of your pockets while you were walking your dog. When keys are the only means to get you where you need to go and it's an actual crisis. Relax before you panic, and try these suggestions. Examine where you typically keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them the last time. Look first in the places where they might have “drifted” or fallen under something. Then move on to the next area, and then on. You might be amazed to find them in a place you never expected. Note down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need this information later or to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a steel plate on the dashboard. It's also in your 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 put it in a convenient location at home or handed it to a family member or roommate. You can also contact the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've handed over any keys. You can also ask around your workplace or school. You never know who may have found your keys, and be willing to return them to you.