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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys have a habit of disappearing in pockets, under couch cushions or even out of sight completely. However, when they do, getting a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may appear. You can usually find a spare key by using your vehicle identification number (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate. Lost Keys It used to be a major hassle when you lost your car keys. You could simply visit your local dealership and pay a small amount of money, and get a replacement key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern advances in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing a lost key is now more time-consuming and expensive. The kind of key you have will determine the price. Older basic metal “insert and turn” keys are not very common in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify what kind of key you have in your vehicle. You can usually do by looking at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions. The next thing you need to do is determine the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle manufactured, and it is located by inspecting the door jamb or washer fluid reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker located under the driver's dashboard. Auto locksmiths are typically capable of helping you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also among the most cost-effective and quick options. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they are able to cut a duplicate copy of your key. If they have the appropriate key blanks, they'll generally do it for all car models and manufactures. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you in the replacement of the car key that was lost and will usually be in a position to supply an alternative transponder. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an additional benefit. However, the cost could still be high, especially when you lose the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep a spare car key in a secure location and to have it available at any time. Stolen Keys If you are concerned about your car being stolen, it is important to report the key loss as soon as you notice it. This will ensure that the key isn't used by anyone who is not authorized that could cause expensive damages to your vehicle. This could result in scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and more. You could also make a police report which can be useful in identifying the person who took your key. One of the best things you can do to guard yourself against theft is to invest in a high-quality, car-specific key fob. These key fobs aren't only more secure, they also include features such as trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems, which allow you to lock and unlock your car with simply pressing the fob. Always keep a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose the keys to your car. A key that isn't an actual fob can be replaced however it will require longer and require more effort. The blank of the key needs to be cut and the key has to be programmed so that it works with the security system of your car. Locksmiths with the right tools and knowledge can do this, but it is typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. Another option is to purchase an alternative key from the dealership. It's more expensive however, the dealer will have special equipment to help prevent your car from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy of your vehicle's ID number, which can be useful if you need to file a police report in the event of a theft. In certain situations, you might need to take your new key to a dealership to be programmed. It's usually a simple procedure, but it could differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your key along with 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 a smart key that locks your car's doors and starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these situations you'll require a replacement to ensure the key fob can perform its function. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail, and most have a limited lifespan. Many people carry an additional car key. Most of the time when a key fob doesn't functioning, it's due to its battery dying. You may try replacing the battery, but if that doesn't work, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's best to bring the car key fob to a dealership. They will have all the necessary equipment to create a brand new key fob, and they can also reprogram your vehicle. Keys will naturally wear away when used but they can also be damaged in different ways as well. Accidents such as dropping your keys on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door can result in cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use or impossible. A locksmith can fix the issue quickly and effectively however, you should use a professional. It's not advisable to attempt to repair a broken key on your own. This could cause further damage to your car or your home. One way to avoid this kind of issue is to keep your key in a secure place when it's not being used. This can lower the likelihood of it being lost or stolen, and will help to keep your key from getting damaged by outside elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to protect it against accidents and weather. This can help in preventing your key from being worn down or even damaged completely. Keys that are lost It's frustrating to lose your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most precious personal item, whether they were thrown out of the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pocket when you were walking your dog. And when keys are the only way to get to where you're headed, it could be a serious emergency. But before you get scared, take a deep breath and try these tips: Check immediately where you typically place your keys, or at least the last time you had them. Check first for places where they might have “drifted” or been lost under something. Next, move to the next location. You may be surprised discover them in a place you'd never imagined. Note down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need to know this information to contact your locksmith or dealer. You can find your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or stamped on a steel plate on the dashboard. replacement auto key fob 's also found in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, grab it. Having a spare is among the best ways to avoid losing your car keys. It could be hidden in a convenient place at your home, or you may have entrusted 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 a bad idea to ask around at your workplace or school, too. You never know who might have stumbled across your keys and be willing to return them.