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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. But when they do, obtaining an alternative isn't as difficult or costly as it may seem. You may be able to get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually found on your registration or title certificate. Lost Keys It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge inconvenience. You could simply go to the local dealership and pay a tiny amount of cash, and then get an alternative key. No longer, thanks to the latest advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing a lost key is now more time-consuming and expensive. The kind of car key you have is a significant element in the price you pay for an alternative. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys aren't as common in modern vehicles and therefore are more expensive to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your car, which you can usually do by taking a look at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions. Next, you will need to find the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique car identification number (VIN) that is found on the door jambs or the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths can be helpful when you have lost keys, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for replacing car keys. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask a staff member if they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they can usually do it for most vehicle models and brands. You can also call roadside assistance. They can assist you with the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will usually be capable of providing a replacement transponder. Certain insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an option. However, the costs can still be expensive, especially in the event of losing a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep an extra car key in a secure place and keep it at all times. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you're worried about your car being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key will not be used by unauthorized people that could cause expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and much more. You can also file a police report to assist in identifying the person who took your key. A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to protect yourself from theft. These key fobs aren't only more secure, but they also have features like trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems that permit you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. It's always an ideal idea to have an extra key fob home to ensure 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 longer and requires more effort. The key blank has to be cut and the key needs to be programmed in order that it is compatible with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right tools and knowledge is able to do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. A replacement key can be purchased at the dealer. It will cost more however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which can be useful if you need to make an official police report in the event of a theft. In certain situations, you might need to take your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. It is usually a simple procedure, but it can differ depending on the model of your car. Bring your keys and a valid photo identification, and an original registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician is able to verify your ownership. Key Damage If you have an electronic key that locks your car doors and opens it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these cases you'll require a replacement to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. This is why many people have a spare car keys. Most of the time, when a key fob isn't working, it is because its battery has died. If the battery isn't working, you might need to replace the key fob. In this situation it is recommended to take the key fob into an auto dealer. They will have all the necessary equipment to create a brand new key fob and they can also reprogram your car. Keys are prone to wear and tear with use however, they can be damaged in a variety of ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door can cause dents and cracks. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again. A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and efficiently, but you should only work with an experienced locksmith. It is not advisable to repair a damaged key yourself. This could cause further damage to your car or home. Store your key in a safe place when not in use to avoid this problem. This will reduce the chances of your key being stolen or lost and it will also protect it from damage caused by elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to keep it safe from damage and weather. This will help prevent your key from getting damaged or worn out. Misplaced Keys It's a pain to lose your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most valuable personal item, whether they were thrown out of the supermarket by a child, tossed on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. If keys are the only way to get where you're headed, it could be a real emergency. But before you panic take a deep breath and follow these steps: Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at least where you kept them the last time. Look first in the places in which they may have “drifted” or been lost under something. Next, shift to the next location. auto key replacement may be surprised to find them in a location you'd never imagined. Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll require this information in the future in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver's doorpost or stamped on a steel plate in the dashboard. It's also found in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, take it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You might have hidden it in a safe place at your home, or you may have given it to your roommate or a family member. You can also contact the police in your area to inquire if anyone has turned in the key. It's not a bad idea to ask about your workplace or school, too. You never know who could have found your keys, and be willing to return them.