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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys have a habit of disappearing into pockets, between couch cushions, or out of sight completely. When they do, relocating them isn't as costly or difficult as you think. It is common to obtain a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually found on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It used to be a major hassle when you lost your car keys. You could just visit your local dealer and pay a small amount of money, and receive a replacement key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology, this is no longer an option. car key replacement cost of replacing a lost key is now more time-consuming and expensive. The type of car key you are using is a major aspect in the price you will have to pay for a replacement. The more basic “insert and turn” keys aren't very popular in modern cars, so they will be cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify the type of key you have in your vehicle, which you will usually do by checking your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions. The next thing to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. It is a unique car identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs or the windshield washer reservoir. It can also be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver. Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of a lost key and are among the quickest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also contact an associate at the local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. If they have the right key blanks, they can generally do it for the majority of car models and brands. You can also call roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to help you with the process of replacing your car key, and they can also generally provide a new transponder if required. Certain insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. The cost can be expensive particularly when you lose a digital key fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key in your possession and keep it in a secure location. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about your car being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key will not be used by anyone who is not authorized and could cause expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in scratches on the doors or the ignition and more. You can also make a police report which can be useful in identifying the person who stole your key. A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to guard yourself against theft. Key fobs that are car-specific are not only more secure, but also have features like trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which permit you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. It's always an ideal idea to have a spare key fob at home so that you are not left without your car in the event that you lose your keys. A key that isn't a fob can still be replaced, but it will take more work and time. 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 is available from the dealer. It will cost more, but the dealer has specific equipment that will help to prevent your car from being taken. The dealership will also have a copy of the vehicle's identification number which can be used to file a police report if your car is ever stolen. In certain instances, you might require taking your new key to a dealer to be programmed. It's usually a straightforward procedure, but it can differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your keys and a valid photo identification, and an original registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can verify your ownership. Key Damage A damaged key fob could cause issues if you've got an electronic car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these instances you'll require a replacement to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys can break and last only a short time. Many people have an extra car key. If a key-fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. You can try replacing the battery, but if this isn't working, you might need to replace the entire key fob. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the equipment needed to create the new key fob and will also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys wear out with regular use, but can also be damaged by various circumstances. Accidents like dropping your key onto the hard surface or getting it stuck in a door may cause dents and cracked. These damages can make your key difficult to use or even impossible. A locksmith can fix this issue quickly and efficiently, but you should only use a professional. It's not recommended to try to repair damaged keys on your own. This could result in more damage to your vehicle or your home. Keep your keys in a safe place when not in use to avoid this problem. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost and it will also protect it from damage caused by the elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to protect it against accidents and weather. This can help in preventing your key from being worn down or being completely damaged. Keys are missing Keys It's difficult to lose your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most precious personal item, regardless of whether they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pocket when you were walking the dog. If keys are your only means of getting to where you're going, it can be a real emergency. But before you get scared take a deep breath and follow these steps: Check immediately where you typically put your keys, or at least the last time you've had them. Check first for places in which they may have “drifted” or fallen under something. Next, shift to the next location. You may be surprised to discover them in a location you didn't expect. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as the key number. You will need to know this information to contact your dealer or locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side door post or on a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also in the owner's manual. If you have a spare key, reach for that one. A spare key is among the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys. It could be hidden in a safe place at home, or have entrusted 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 any keys. It's not an ideal idea to inquire for help at your work or at school, too. cost for car key replacement know if someone has discovered your keys missing and might be willing to return them to you.