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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known for disappearing into pockets, couch cushions or out of sight. If they do, replacing them isn't nearly as expensive or difficult as you might think. It is common to obtain an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually found on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It was a major hassle when you lost your car keys. You could simply go to your local dealer and pay a small amount of money, and get an alternate key. With the advancements in anti-theft and car security technology the process is no longer feasible. The process of replacing lost keys is more expensive and time-consuming. The type of key you're using will determine the cost. Older basic metal “insert and turn” keys are not very common in modern vehicles which is why they are cheaper to replace. You can determine the kind of key in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by contacting your dealer. The next thing you need to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique code that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured and is located by looking at the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir for fluid. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths can be helpful in the case of lost keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also contact an associate at your local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. If they have the correct key blanks, they can generally do it for the majority of car models and manufactures. You can also contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able assist you with the process of losing your car keys and typically provide a new transponder if required. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an added benefit. However, the cost could still be high, especially in the event of losing a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep an extra key on hand and keep it in a safe place. Stolen Keys If you're worried about your car being stolen, it's important to report the key loss as soon as you notice it. This will ensure that the key isn't misused by unauthorised people, which could result in costly damages to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You can also file a police report, which could be helpful in identifying the person who took your key. A premium car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to protect yourself against theft. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, they also have features like trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose your car keys. It is possible to replace a key that isn't a fob, but it takes longer and requires more effort. The blank key has to be cut and the key programmed to connect with the security system in your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and experience however, it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob. A replacement key can be purchased at the dealership. It's more expensive, but the dealer has specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy your 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 may need to take your new key to a dealership to be programmed. This is usually a quick procedure, however it may depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and an ID photo that is valid, and a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle so that the technician is able to verify the ownership of your vehicle. Key Damage If you have an electronic key that locks your car's doors and opens it, a damaged key fob could cause issues. In these situations you'll need to replace the key fob in order to ensure it is able to perform its job. It's not common for smart keys to fail, and most have a limited lifespan. This is the reason why many have a spare car keys. Most of the time when a key-fob isn't working, it is because the battery has failed. You can try replacing the battery, but if that isn't working, you might need to replace the entire key fob. If this is the case, it's recommended to take the car key fob to a dealer. They'll have the equipment necessary to create a brand new key fob and they can also reprogram your car. Keys naturally wear down as they use them, but they can be damaged in a variety of ways as well. Accidents such as dropping your keys on the hard surface or securing it in a door can cause cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again. A locksmith can fix this problem quickly and efficiently, but you should only work with an experienced locksmith. Do not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. replacement key for a car could cause more damage to your house or car. Store your key in a safe place when not in use to avoid this problem. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost, and it will also protect it from damage caused by the elements. You should also think about investing in a case to protect your key to further protect it from weather or accidents. This will stop your key from becoming damaged or worn down. Keys that are misplaced It's difficult to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a toddler in the store or placed on the table where you had lunch, or slipped out of your pocket while walking the dog, you're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal possession. When keys are the only way to get to where you're going, it could be a real emergency. But before you get scared take a deep breath and try these tips: Examine where you typically 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 gotten lost under something. Then move on to the next area, and then on. You might be amazed to discover them in a location you'd never imagined. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and the key number. You will require this information in the future in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped on a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, you should grab it. A spare key is one of the best ways to prevent losing your car keys. You may have hidden it in a safe place at home or handed it to a roommate or family member. It is also a good idea to contact the police in your area to find out if they've turned in keys. It's not an ideal idea to inquire around at your workplace or school, too. You never know who may have found your keys and be willing to return them.