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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys have a habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions, or out of sight altogether. But if they do, obtaining a replacement isn't as complicated or expensive as it might seem. It is common to obtain an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It was a major hassle when you lost your car keys. You could just go to your local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and get a replacement key. With the advances in anti-theft and car security technology it is no longer feasible. The process of replacing a lost key is now more costly and time-consuming. The kind of car key you are using is a major factor in the cost you have to pay for the replacement. The more basic “insert and turn” keys are not very common in modern cars and therefore will be more affordable to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle, which you typically do by checking your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions. Next, you will need to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle manufactured, and it is located by checking the door jamb or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also found in the owner's manual or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths are often equipped to assist you in replacing 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 the associate if they can make a duplicate of your key. They are usually able to do this for the majority of kinds of automobiles provided they have the right key blanks. car key fob replacement is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you in the replacement of the car key that was lost and will typically be capable of providing the transponder replacement. Certain insurance companies offer car key replacement as an option. The costs can be high, particularly if you lose an electronic key fob. It is recommended to keep a spare car key in a secure location and keep it readily available at any time. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your keys immediately if you're worried about the theft of your vehicle. This will help to ensure that the key is not used by anyone who is not authorized that could cause expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and much more. You can also file a police report that may assist in identifying the person who stole your key. One of the best ways to safeguard yourself from theft is to buy a high-quality, car-specific key fob. 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 by simply pressing the fob. It's always recommended to keep an extra key fob at home so that you are not left without your car in the event that you lose your keys. A key that's not 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 in order that it is compatible with your car's security system. 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 obtained at the dealership. It's more expensive, but the dealer has special equipment to help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will have a copy your vehicle's ID number, which is useful if you need to submit an official police report in the event of theft. In certain instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership in order to get it programmed to your vehicle. This is usually a quick process, but it can depend on the particular model of your vehicle. 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 the ownership of your vehicle. Key Damage If you have a smart key that locks your car's doors and then starts it, a damaged key fob could cause problems. In these situations you'll require a replacement to ensure that the key fob is able to perform its task. Smart keys can break and last only a short time. Many people carry an extra car key. Most of the time when a key fob doesn't working, it's because its battery has died. If the battery doesn't function, you might need to replace the key fob. In this case it is recommended to bring the key fob to the dealership. They'll have the tools needed to make a new key fob and can also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys naturally wear down when used, but they can be damaged in a variety of ways. Accidents such as dropping your key on the hard surface or securing it in a door can cause dents and cracked. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again. A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and effectively, but you should only employ a professional. It's not recommended to fix a broken key on your own. This can result in further damage to your vehicle or your home. Keep your keys in a safe place when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chance of it being lost or stolen, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help keep it safe from damage and weather. This will help prevent your key from getting worn down or damaged. Keys that are misplaced It's frustrating to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a toddler in the grocery store or left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch, or slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most important personal item. If keys are your only means of getting to where you're going, it can be a real emergency. Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tips. Examine where you typically keep your keys, or at a minimum, where you stored them the last time. Look first in the places in which they may have “drifted” or gotten lost under something. Next, move to the next spot. You might be surprised to find them in a location you never expected. Note down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information later or to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also included in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, reach to it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to have a spare. You might have hidden it in a safe place at home, or you might have entrusted it to a roommate or family member. You can also contact the police in your area to find out if they've turned in keys. You can also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know who may have found your keys, and be prepared to return them to you.