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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing from pockets, in between cushions on couches or just out of sight altogether. When they do, relocating them isn't as costly or difficult as you may think. You can usually find a spare key by using your vehicle identification (VIN), located on your registration certificate or title certificate. Lost Keys It was an enormous hassle when you lost your car keys. You could go to the local dealership and pay a small amount of cash, and then get an alternate key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern advances in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the process to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be a lot more costly and time consuming. The type of key you have will determine the cost. Older basic metal “insert and turn” keys aren't popular in modern cars which is why they are more affordable to replace. You can determine the type of key in your car by looking at the key ring or by calling your dealer. The next step is to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs or windshield washer reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker beneath the driver's dashboard. Auto locksmiths can often help when you have a lost key and are among the fastest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also contact an associate at your local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. They can usually do this for all types and makes of vehicles, as long as they have the appropriate key blanks. You can also contact roadside assistance. They can assist you in the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will typically be capable of providing an alternative transponder. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an add-on. However, the cost can still be high, especially when you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a secure location and to have it readily available at any time. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you are worried about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key will not be used by anyone who is not authorized, which could result in costly damage to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition or door, as well as scratches and more. You can also submit a police report which can be useful 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. They are not just more secure than standard keys however, they also include features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. It's always a good idea to have a spare key fob at home so that you're not stranded without your car in the event that you lose your keys. A key that isn't an actual fob can 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 the security system of your car. A locksmith who has the right tools and experience can do this, however it is typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. Another option is to get a replacement key at the dealership. It will cost more but the dealer has specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being taken. The dealership will be able to duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which can be beneficial if you need to make an investigation in the event of a theft. In certain instances, you might have 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 key along with an ID photo that is valid, and an original registration or title of your vehicle so that the technician can 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 problems. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob can do its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. This is one reason why a lot of people carry a spare car key. When a key fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. If the battery isn't working, it could be necessary to replace the key fob. In this case it is recommended to bring the key fob to a dealership. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create a brand new key fob and also reprogram your vehicle. Keys wear out with regular use, but can be damaged by a variety of causes. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it caught in the door can cause cracks and scratches. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future. A locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and effectively, but you should only use an experienced locksmith. Do not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or your home. A good way to prevent this kind of issue is to store your key in a secure location when it's not being used. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost and also help keep your key from becoming damaged by elements outside. You should also consider investing in a case to protect your key to further shield it from weather or accidents. This can help to prevent your key from being worn down or being completely damaged. Misplaced Keys It's a pain to lose your car keys. Whether they were dropped by a toddler in the supermarket or placed on the table where you had lunch, or slipped out of your pocket while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most valuable personal possession. And when the keys are your only means of getting to where you're headed, it could be a real emergency. Take a deep breath before you panic, and try these suggestions. Examine where you typically keep your keys or at a minimum, where you stored them last time. Sometimes they “drift” to the side or are lost under something, so take a check those spots first. Then, you can shift to the next location. You may be surprised to discover them in a place you'd never imagined. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as its key number. You will need this information later or to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. key replacement car can also locate it in your owner's guide. If you have a spare key, reach for that one. The possession of a spare key is one of the best ways to prevent losing your car keys. You may have hid it in a convenient location at home, or have given it to someone in your family or roommate. You can also contact the police in your area to find out whether they've handed over keys. You can also inquire at your workplace or school. You never know who may have found your keys, and be prepared to return them to you.