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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 just out of sight completely. When they do, relocating keys isn't as costly or difficult as you think. You can often get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually located on your registration or title certificate. Lost Keys It was the case that losing keys to your car was a huge inconvenience. You could go to the dealership, pay the small amount and then get a new one. With the advances in anti-theft and security for cars technology, this is no longer feasible. Today, the process to replace the lost car key could be more costly and time consuming. The type of key you have will determine the cost. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys are less frequent in modern cars, so they're cheaper to replace. The first step is to determine what kind of key you have in your vehicle, which you typically do by taking a look at your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions. Next, you will need to know the vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle produced by the manufacturer, and is located by checking the door jamb or washer reservoir of fluid. You can also find it in the owner's guide or on a sticker located 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 among the most efficient and affordable alternatives. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask a staff member if they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. They can usually do this for the majority of kinds of automobiles, as long as they have the right key blanks. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll most likely be able to assist you with the process of replacing your car key, and they can also generally provide a new transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an option. However, the cost could still be high, especially in the event of losing the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key in your possession and keep it in a secure place. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your keys immediately if you are concerned about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person which could result in expensive damage to your car. This can include scratches on the doors or the ignition and much more. You could also submit a police report which can be useful in identifying the person who took your key. One of the most effective ways to guard yourself against theft is to invest in an expensive, car-specific key fob. These key fobs are not only more secure, they also include features such as trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems that permit you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob home so that you are not stuck without your car in the event that you lose your keys. It is possible to replace a key that's not an fob, however it takes more time and effort. The key blank has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed so that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith with the right tools and experience can do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. Another option is to purchase a replacement key at the dealership. This is more expensive however it is an option that is safer because the dealer has access to the latest equipment that will help to protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy of the identification number of your vehicle, which can be used to file an police report in case your vehicle is stolen. In certain instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership to get it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a simple procedure, but it can differ according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key, an ID with a valid photo and an original copy of your vehicle's title or registration to ensure that the technician is aware that you are the owner of the vehicle. Key Damage A damaged key fob could cause issues if you've got a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations, you'll need a replacement to ensure that the fob can do its job. It's not uncommon for smart keys to break and they have a limited lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car keys. Most of the time when a key fob doesn't working, it is because its battery has died. You may try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may have to replace the entire key fob. If this is the case, it's recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create a new key fob and can also reprogram your vehicle. Keys naturally wear down as they use them but they can also be damaged in a variety of ways too. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door can cause cracks and dents. auto car key replacement could make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again. A locksmith can fix this issue quickly and easily however, it is important to hire a professional who is certified. It is not advisable to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could result in further damage to your car or your home. One way to avoid this kind of issue is to keep your key in a safe place when it's not in use. This can reduce the risk of it being lost or stolen, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help to protect it against accidents and weather. This will stop your key from getting damaged or worn down. Keys that are lost There aren't many things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most precious personal item, regardless of whether they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, left on your kitchen table while you ate lunch, or fell out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. When keys are the only means to get you to where you need to go, it can become an actual crisis. Take a deep breath before you panic and try these suggestions. Immediately check where you usually put your keys, or at the very least the last time you used them. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to look in those places first. Next, move to the next spot. You might be amazed to find them in a location you'd never imagined. Write down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information in order to contact your dealer or locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side of the door or on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, take it. Having a spare is one of the best things you can do to prevent losing your car keys. You may have hidden it in an accessible place at home or handed it to your roommate or a family member. You can also contact the police station in your town to find out if anyone has turned in the key. You can also inquire at your workplace or school. You never know who might have stumbled across your keys and be prepared to return them to you.