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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing from pockets, between couch cushions, or out of sight altogether. When they do, replacing keys isn't as costly or difficult as you might think. You may be able to get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which 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 the dealership and pay the small amount and receive a new key. With the advances in anti-theft as well as car security technology the process is no longer possible. The replacement of a lost car key can be more costly and time consuming. The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The older, basic metal “insert and turn” keys aren't very common in modern cars, so they will be more affordable to replace. You can determine the type of key in your car by looking at the key ring or by calling your dealer. The next thing to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. It is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle produced and is located by looking at the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir of fluid. It is also found in the owner's manual or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths can be helpful in the case of lost keys, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask an associate whether they are able to make a duplicate of your key. They can usually do this for all kinds of automobiles provided they have the appropriate key blanks. You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to help you with the process of losing your car keys and will typically provide a new transponder in the event that it is needed. Some insurance companies offer a car key replacement service as an add-on. However, the costs can be quite high, particularly when you lose a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it available at any time. Stolen Keys If you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen, it is crucial to report the loss as soon as you notice it. This will ensure that the key isn't misused by unauthorised people that could cause expensive damage to your vehicle. This could result in damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You may also file a formal police report that could aid in identifying the person who stole your key. One of the best ways to protect yourself from theft is to invest in an expensive, car-specific key fob. These key fobs aren't only more secure, they also have features like trunk releases, remote engine starts, and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by simply tapping the fob. You should always have an extra fob at home in the event that you lose the keys to your car. A key that isn't an actual fob can be replaced however it will require longer and require more effort. The key blank has to be cut and the key has to be programmed so that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith with the right tools and experience is able to do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. Another option is to get an alternative key from the dealership. This will be more expensive however, it's more secure since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can protect 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 official police report in the event of theft. In certain instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership in order to have it programmed to your vehicle. It's usually a straightforward procedure, but it could differ according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your keys and an acceptable photo identification as well as a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician is able to verify your ownership. Key Damage A damaged key fob could cause problems if you own a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the key fob can perform its function. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and last only a short time. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car key. Most of the time when a key fob doesn't working, it's due to its battery dying. If the battery doesn't function, you might need to replace the key fob. In this instance it is recommended to take the key fob into an auto dealer. They'll have the tools needed to make an entirely new key fob. They can also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys wear out over time with regular use, but they can be damaged by various causes. Accidents such as dropping your key onto the hard surface or getting it stuck in a door may result in cracks and dents. These damage can make your keys difficult to use, or impossible. A locksmith can fix this problem quickly and efficiently, but you should only use an expert. It is not advisable to fix a broken key yourself. This could result in further damage to your car or your home. Keep your keys in a secure 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 the elements. You should also think about investing in a case to protect your key to further shield it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from being worn down or damaged. Keys that are misplaced It's a pain to lose your car keys. Whether car key replacements were dropped by a toddler in the supermarket or left on the kitchen table where you ate your lunch, or slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you feel like you've lost your most valuable personal possession. When keys are the only means of getting to where you're going, it could be a true emergency. Relax before you get stressed and try these suggestions. Check immediately where you typically place your keys, or at a minimum the last time you used them. First, look for areas where they might have “drifted” or gotten lost under something. Then move to the next location and the next. You may be surprised find them in a location you'd never imagined. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You'll need this information to call your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN can be found on the driver's doorpost or stamped on a steel plate in the dashboard. It's also included in your owner's manual. If you have a spare key, reach to it. One of the best ways to ensure you don't lose your car keys is to keep an extra. You might have hidden it 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 see whether anyone has handed in a key. You can also inquire at your workplace or at school. You never know who could have stumbled across your keys and be prepared to return them to you.