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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are notorious for disappearing into couches, pockets or out of sight. However, when they do, obtaining an alternative isn't as difficult or expensive as it might appear. It is common to obtain an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It used to be that losing keys to your car was a huge inconvenience. You could go to the dealership and pay an amount and receive a new key. No longer, thanks to the latest technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The process of replacing keys that have been lost is more expensive and time-consuming. The type of car key you are using is a major element in the price you be charged for an alternative. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys aren't as common in modern vehicles, so they're cheaper to replace. You can determine the type of key that is in your car by looking at the key ring or by contacting your dealer. The next thing you need to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. It is a unique car identification number (VIN) that is found on the door jambs or the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker under the driver's dashboard. Auto locksmiths can often help when you have a lost key and are among the quickest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask an associate if they can cut you a copy of your key. They usually can do this for all kinds of automobiles in the event that they have the appropriate key blanks. You can also call roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to help you with the lost car key process and will generally offer a replacement transponder if needed. Some insurance companies offer car key replacement as an optional service. The costs can be high, particularly when you lose a digital key fob. The best way to prevent 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 key immediately if you are worried about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key will not be used by a unauthorized person which could result in costly damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and more. You may also file a formal police report that may help identify the person who took your key. One of the most effective ways to safeguard yourself from theft is to purchase a top-quality, car-specific fob. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, but they also include features such as trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems, which let you lock and unlock your car by simply tapping the fob. It is advisable to always keep an extra fob in your home in the event that you lose your car keys. A key that's not an fob is still able to be replaced however, it will require longer and more effort. The blank key needs to be cut, and the key programmed to work with the security system in your car. Locksmiths with the right equipment and expertise can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. A replacement key is available from the dealer. It will cost more however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being stolen. The dealership will have a duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which could be beneficial if you need to submit an official police report in the event of a theft. In some cases you may have to take your new key to a dealership to have it programmed. It's usually a straightforward procedure, but it can differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your key and an acceptable photo ID, and an original copy of your vehicle's title or registration to ensure that the technician knows you are the owner. Key Damage If you have an electronic key that locks your car doors and opens it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and have a limited lifespan. Many people have an extra car key. If a key fob ceases to function, the battery is typically dead. If the battery doesn't function, you might need to replace the key fob. In this instance it is recommended to bring the key fob to the dealership. They'll have the equipment required to create the new key fob and will also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys wear out with regular use, but they can also be damaged due to various circumstances. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door can cause cracks and dents. These damage can make your keys difficult to use or even impossible. A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and effectively however, you should employ an expert. It's not recommended to attempt to repair damaged keys on your own. This could cause more damage to your house or vehicle. Keep your keys in a safe place when not in use to avoid this problem. This can reduce the risk of it being stolen or lost, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. It is also recommended to invest in a protective case for your key to further protect it from accidents or weather. This can help in preventing your key from wearing down or even damaged completely. Misplaced Keys It's difficult to lose your car keys. Whether additional reading were dropped by a child at the grocery store or placed on the table where you had lunch or even slipped out of your pocket while walking your dog, you feel like you've lost your most important personal item. If keys are your only way to get to where you're going, it could be a serious emergency. Take a deep breath before you panic and try these suggestions. Immediately check where you usually place your keys, or at least the last time you've had them. Look first in the places where they might have “drifted” or fallen under something. Then move on to the next spot and the next. You might be surprised to discover them in a place you didn't expect. Note down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll require this information later on in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped on a steel plate in the dashboard. It's also in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, go for that one. A spare key is among the best ways to ensure that you don't lose your car keys. You may have put it in an accessible place at home, or even given it to a roommate or family member. It is also a good idea to contact the police in your area to find out whether they've handed over keys. You can also inquire at your school or workplace. You never know when someone has discovered your missing keys, and they might be willing to give them back to you.