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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are notorious for disappearing in pockets, couches or even out of sight. When they do, replacing them isn't as costly or difficult as you think. You can often get a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually located on the title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It used to be that losing your car keys was a huge hassle. You could go to your local dealer, pay a little bit of money, and receive a replacement key. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the procedure to replace a lost car key can be much more expensive and time-consuming. The type of car key that you have is a significant aspect in the price you will be charged for the replacement. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys are less frequently used in modern vehicles and therefore are more expensive to replace. The first step is to identify what kind of key you have in your vehicle, which you will usually do by taking a look at your key ring or calling your dealer for specific instructions. The next thing to find is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. It is a unique car identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs and windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker located under the driver's dashboard. Auto locksmiths are often able to help in the event of lost keys, and they are among the quickest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also ask an associate at the local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they'll generally do it for all car models and brands. You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They can assist you in the replacement of keys for your car that have been lost and will typically be in a position to supply an alternative transponder. Some insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. The cost could be high particularly in the event that you lose your electronic key fob. It is recommended to keep a spare car key in a secure place and keep it available at all times. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you're worried about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key is not used by unauthorized people, which could result in expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition, scratches on the door and much more. You could also submit a police report which may be useful in identifying whoever took your key. One of the best methods to safeguard yourself from theft is to buy a top-quality, car-specific fob. 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 pressing the fob. It's always a good idea to have an extra key fob home so that you're not stuck without your car should you lose your keys. A key that isn't an actual fob can be replaced, but it will take longer and more effort. The blank of the key needs to be cut and the key needs to be programmed in order that it is compatible with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right tools and experience can do this, however it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob. Another option is to get an alternative key from the dealership. This will be more expensive however, it's an option that is safer because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of the vehicle's identification number which can be used to file an official police report in the event that your vehicle is stolen. In certain instances, you might have to take your new key to a dealership to be programmed. It's usually a simple procedure, but it can differ depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your key, an ID with a valid photo and a copy of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician can verify that you are the owner of the vehicle. Key Damage If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and opens it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these cases you'll need replace the key fob to ensure it is able to perform its function. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and last only a short time. This is the reason why many have a spare car keys. If a key-fob isn't working, the battery is usually dead. If the battery doesn't function, you might need to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually best to bring the car key fob to a dealership. They will have the equipment needed to make an entirely new key fob. They will also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys are prone to wear and tear when used however, they can be damaged in a variety of ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key onto a hard surface or securing it in a door could result in cracks and dents. The damage can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again. A locksmith can fix this issue quickly and efficiently, but you should only employ an experienced locksmith. It's not recommended to try to repair a broken key by yourself. This can result in further damage to your vehicle or home. Place your key in a secure location when not in use to avoid this problem. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. You should also consider investing in a protective case for your key to further protect it from weather and accidents. This can help in preventing your key from wearing down or damaged completely. Keys that are lost There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. Whether they were dropped by a child in the grocery store, left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch, or slipped out of your pocket while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most precious personal possession. When your keys are the only way to get you where you're supposed to go it can turn into a real crisis. But before you panic take a deep breath and follow these steps: Check immediately where you typically place your keys, or at a minimum the last time you used them. Sometimes they “drift” to the side or end up under something, so take a look in those places first. Next, move to the next location. You may be surprised find them in a spot you'd never imagined. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle as well as the key number. You'll need this information in order to contact your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN is located on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a steel plate in the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You may have hidden it in an accessible place at home or handed it to a roommate or family member. It is also a good idea to contact the police in your neighborhood to find out whether they've handed over any keys. You could also ask around your workplace or at school. You never know who may have found your keys and be willing to return them to you.