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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing in pockets, under couch cushions or just completely out of sight. When they do, relocating them isn't nearly as difficult or expensive as you might think. You can often get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually located on your registration or title certificate. Lost Keys It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge hassle. You could just visit your local dealership and pay a tiny amount of money, and get an alternate key. With vehicle key replacement in anti-theft as well as car security technology the process is no longer an option. Today, the process to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be more costly and time consuming. The type of car key that you have is a significant aspect in the price you will be charged for a replacement. The older, basic metal “insert and turn” keys aren't very common in modern vehicles which is why they are more affordable to replace. You can identify the type of key in your car by looking at the key ring, or by contacting your dealer. The next step is to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs and 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 capable of helping you replace a lost car key. They are also one of the quickest and most affordable alternatives. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. They usually can do this for all types and makes of vehicles, as long as they have the correct key blanks. You can also call roadside assistance. They can help you with the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will usually be capable of providing a replacement transponder. Certain insurance companies offer car keys replacement as an option. However, the cost can be quite high, particularly when you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. The best way to avoid this is to always keep an extra key on hand and keep it in a secure place. Stolen Keys If you're worried about your car being stolen, it's essential to report the loss right away. This will ensure that the key will not be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and more. You can also file an official police report that could assist in identifying the person who took your key. A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself from theft. These are not only more secure than standard keys, but they also have features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release, and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your vehicle by simply pressing the fob. It's always recommended to keep an extra key fob home so that you're not stranded without your car in the event that you lose your keys. It is possible to replace a key that's not an fob, however it requires longer and more effort. The blank for the key has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed so that it works with your car's security system. This can be accomplished by a locksmith with the right tools and knowledge, but it's usually more expensive than replacing your lost key fob. Another option is to obtain an alternative key from the dealership. It's more expensive however, the dealer will have special equipment to help prevent 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 some cases you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a simple procedure, but it could differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your keys along with an acceptable photo ID, and a copy of your car's title or registration so 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 key fob could cause issues. In these cases 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. Many people have an extra car key. When a key fob ceases to function, the battery is typically dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if that isn't working, you might have to replace the entire key fob instead. In this case it is recommended to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have all the necessary equipment to create a new key fob, and also reprogram your car. Keys are prone to wear and tear when used however, they can be damaged in various ways as well. Accidents such as dropping your keys on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door could cause cracks and scratches. These damage can make your keys difficult to use or even impossible. A locksmith can resolve this issue quickly and efficiently however, you should work with an expert. It is not safe to attempt to repair the broken key on your own. This could result in further damage to your car or home. Keep your keys in a safe place when not in use to avoid this issue. This will lower the risk of your key being lost or stolen, and it will also protect it from damage caused by elements. It is also recommended to invest in a case to protect your key to protect it from accidents or weather. This will prevent your key from getting damaged or worn out. Keys that are misplaced It's difficult to lose your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most precious personal possession, no matter if they were thrown out of the supermarket by a child, left on the kitchen table while you ate lunch or slipped out of your pockets while you were walking the dog. If keys are the only way to get where you're going, it could be a true emergency. But before you get scared, take a deep breath and follow these steps: Examine where you typically keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them last time. First, look for areas where they may have “drifted” or fallen under something. Then move to the next area, and then on. You may be surprised to discover them in a place you never expected. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You will need this information later in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver's doorpost or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, reach for it. A spare key is among the best things you can do to ensure that you don't lose your car keys. You may have put it in a safe place at home or handed it to a family member or roommate. You can also contact the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've handed over any keys. It's not good to ask about your workplace or at school, too. You never know when someone has found your missing keys and is willing to return them to you.