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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys have a habit of disappearing from pockets, under couch cushions or even out of sight completely. But if they do, getting replacement keys isn't as difficult or expensive as it might appear. You may be able to get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually found on your registration or title certificate. Lost Keys It was the case that losing keys to your car was a huge hassle. You could go to the local dealership, pay a little bit of cash, and then get a replacement key. With the advances in anti-theft as well as car security technology, this is no longer an option. The procedure to replace keys for a car that have been lost can be much more expensive and time-consuming. The kind of car key you have is a significant aspect in the cost you be charged for an alternative. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys are less common in modern vehicles and therefore are more expensive to replace. You can determine the kind of key you have in your car by taking a look at the key ring or by contacting your dealer. Next, you will need to know the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) which is located on the door jambs and windshield washer reservoir. It can also be located in the owner's manual, or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths are typically able to help you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also among the most efficient and affordable options. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they can make a duplicate of your key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they will usually do it for most car models and brands. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to assist you with the process of losing your car keys, and they can also usually provide a new transponder if needed. Certain insurance companies offer car key replacement as an optional service. The cost can be expensive especially when you lose a digital key fob. It is best to keep an extra car key in a safe place and keep it readily available at all times. Stolen Keys If you're worried about your car being stolen, it is important to report the key loss right away. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person which could result in costly damage to your vehicle. This can include damage to the ignition or door, as well as scratches and much more. You could also make a police report which can be useful in identifying whoever took your key. One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from theft is to buy a high-quality, car-specific key fob. These key fobs aren't only more secure, they also include features such as trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your car by simply pressing the fob. You should always have a spare fob at your home in the event that you lose the keys to your car. It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it takes more time and effort. The blank key must be cut and the key programmed to work with the security system in your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith who has the right tools and experience but it's generally more expensive than replacing your lost key fob. A replacement key can be purchased from the dealer. This is more expensive, but it is also more secure since the dealer has access to special equipment that can help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy of the vehicle's identification number which is helpful for filing an police report in case your car is ever stolen. In some cases you may require taking 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 and a valid photo identification, and an original registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can confirm the ownership of your vehicle. Key Damage A damaged key fob could cause problems if you own a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these cases, you will need to replace the key fob in order for it to perform its purpose. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. This is why many people have a spare car keys. If a key fob stops working, its battery is usually dead. If the battery doesn't function, you may have to replace the key fob. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob, and can also reprogram your vehicle. Keys are prone to wear and tear as they use them however, they can be damaged in various ways too. Accidents like dropping your key on hard surfaces or getting it stuck in the door can result in cracks and scratches. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your keys again. A locksmith can fix this problem quickly and efficiently, but you should only work with an experienced locksmith. It's not advisable to try to repair damaged keys on your own. This can result in more damage to your vehicle or home. One way to avoid this kind of issue is to store your key in a secure place when it's not in use. 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 further protect it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from being damaged or worn out. Keys are missing Keys There aren't many things more frustrating than losing your car keys. If they were dropped by a child at the store, left on the kitchen table where you had lunch or left in your pockets while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most valuable personal item. When your keys are the only means to get you to where you're supposed to go, it can become an actual crisis. Take a deep breath before you panic and try these tricks. Examine where you typically keep your keys or at a minimum, where you stored them the last time. Check first for places in which they may have “drifted” or fallen under something. Then move on to the next area and the next. You might be surprised to find them in a spot you'd never imagined. Note down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll require this information later on or to contact your dealer or a locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side of the door or stamped on a steel plate on the dashboard. It's also in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, go for it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to have an extra. You may have hidden it in a safe place at home, or even given it to a roommate or family member. You can also contact the police in your area to find out if anyone has turned in the key. It's not a bad idea to ask for help at your work or at school, too. You never know if someone has found your missing keys and might be willing to return them to you.