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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys have a habit of disappearing in pockets, between couch cushions, or completely out of sight. But if they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or costly as it may appear. You can usually get a spare key using your vehicle identification (VIN) which is 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 dealership and pay the small amount and receive a new key. This is no longer the case, thanks to modern advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The procedure to replace a lost car key can be much more expensive and time-consuming. The kind of key you have will determine the price. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys are less frequent in modern cars and therefore are more expensive to replace. You can identify the type of key that is in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by contacting your dealer. The next step is to find your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle manufactured, and it can be found by inspecting the door jamb, or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's guide or on a sticker located beneath the driver's dashboard. Auto locksmiths are often able to help you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also among the quickest and most affordable alternatives. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask an associate if they can make a duplicate of your key. As long as they have the appropriate key blanks, they can generally do it for all car models and makes. Another option is to call roadside assistance. They can assist you in the process of replacing the car key that was lost and will usually be able to provide an alternative transponder. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. The cost could be high particularly when you lose a digital key fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep a spare key available and keep it in a safe location. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen. This will ensure that the key cannot be used by a unauthorized person and could cause expensive damage to your car. This can include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also file an official police report that may help identify the person who stole your key. A high-quality car-specific keyfob is among the best ways to safeguard yourself from theft. They are not just more secure than traditional keys however, they also come with features like trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose the keys to your car. It is possible to replace a key that isn't a fob, but it takes more time and effort. The blank for the key has to be cut and the key needs to be programmed in order that it can be used with the security system of your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith with the right tools and knowledge but it's generally more expensive than replacing your lost key fob. A replacement key can be purchased from the dealer. This is more expensive however, it's an option that is safer because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which could be useful if you need to make an investigation in the event of a theft. In certain instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership and get it programmed to your vehicle. This is usually a quick process, but it can vary based on the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and an ID photo that is valid, along with a copy of the registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician is able to verify your ownership. Key Damage A damaged key fob may cause issues if you've got a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these situations you'll need replace the key fob in order for it to perform its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. This is the reason why many have a spare car keys. The majority of the time, when a key-fob isn't working, it is because the battery has failed. You could try replacing the battery, but if this isn't working, you might have to replace the entire key fob. If automotive key replacement is the case, it's recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create an entirely new key fob, and also reprogram your car. Keys wear out over time with regular use, but can be damaged by many different circumstances. Inaccidents such as dropping your key onto an un-porous surface or securing it in a door may cause cracks and dents. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future. A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and efficiently, but it's important to use a qualified professional. It's not recommended to attempt to repair the broken key by yourself. This could result in further damage to your car or your home. A good way to prevent this kind of issue is to keep your keys in a secure place when it's not being used. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help to protect it against accidents and weather. This will prevent your key from being damaged or worn out. Keys that are misplaced There aren't many things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. If they were dropped by a child in the supermarket, placed on the table where you ate lunch, or slipped out of your pocket while walking your dog, you feel as if you've lost your most precious personal possession. When keys are your only means of getting to where you're headed, it could be a real emergency. Relax before you panic, and try these tricks. Immediately check where you usually place your keys, or at least the last time you've had them. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or get lost beneath something, so make sure to take a look first in those areas. Then move on to the next spot, and so on. You might be amazed to discover them in places you never expected. Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information later or to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's guide. If you have an extra key, take it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to have an extra. You may have hidden it in a convenient location at home or given it to your roommate or a family member. You can also call the police in your locality to find out if anyone has turned in keys. You could also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know when someone has found your keys missing, and they might be willing to give them back to you.