How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are notorious for disappearing into pockets, couch cushions or even out of sight. But when they do, obtaining replacement keys isn't as difficult or costly as it may appear. You may be able to get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN), which is usually on your title or registration certificate. Lost Keys It used to be an enormous hassle when you lost your car keys. You could visit the dealership, pay a small amount of money and get a new key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology the process is no longer feasible. The process of replacing keys that have been lost is more costly and time-consuming. The type of car key that you are using is a major element in the price you will pay for a replacement. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys are not very common in modern cars, so they will be cheaper to replace. You can determine the kind of key that is in your car by inspecting the key ring or by contacting your dealer. The next thing to do is find out the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. This is a unique code 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 located 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 options. You can also contact an associate at your local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. If they have the correct key blanks, they'll generally do it for the majority of automobile models and makes. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able to assist you with the process of losing your car keys and will generally provide a new transponder if needed. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an added benefit. However, the cost could be quite high, particularly if you lose a key that is paired with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep a spare car key in a safe location and keep it at all times. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about your car being stolen. This will ensure that the key will not be misused by unauthorised people, which could result in costly damage to your vehicle. This could result in scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and much more. You may also file a formal police report to assist in identifying the person who stole your key. A premium car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to guard yourself against theft. These are not only more secure than regular keys however, 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 at home to ensure that you're not stuck without your car in the event that you lose your keys. A key that isn't an fob is still able to be replaced, but it will take longer and require more effort. The blank key must be cut and then the key programmed to function with the security system in your car. This can be accomplished by a locksmith equipped with the right tools and experience, but it's usually more expensive than replacing the lost key fob. A replacement key can be obtained at the dealership. It will cost more however, the dealer will have special equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will also have a copy of your vehicle's identification number, which is useful for filing an official police report in the event that your car is ever stolen. In some instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and get it programmed to your vehicle. This is typically a fast process, but it can depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo identification, and an original registration or title of your vehicle, so that the technician can confirm your ownership. Key Damage A damaged key fob can cause problems if you have a smart car key that locks and starts your vehicle. In these cases you'll need to replace the key fob in order for it to perform its purpose. It's not uncommon for smart keys to break, and most have a limited life span. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car key. The majority of the time, when a key fob doesn't working, it is because the battery has failed. If the battery doesn't work it could be necessary to replace the key fob. In this situation, it is best to bring the key fob to an auto dealer. They will have all the necessary equipment to create an entirely new key fob and also reprogram your car. Keys wear out with regular use, but they can be damaged by many different factors. Accidents such as dropping your keys on a hard surface or securing it in a door can cause cracks and dents. These damages can make it difficult or impossible to use your key again. A locksmith can solve this issue quickly and easily, but it's important to use a qualified professional. Do not attempt to repair a damaged key yourself. This could cause further damage to your car or your home. Keep your keys in a safe place when not in use to avoid this issue. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by outside elements. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help protect it against accidents and weather. This will prevent your key from becoming worn down or damaged. Keys that are lost There aren't many things more frustrating than misplacing your car keys. You feel as if you've lost your most precious personal possession, no matter if they were dropped in the supermarket by a child, tossed on the table in your kitchen while you ate lunch or slipped out of your pockets while you were walking your dog. And when the keys are your only way to get to where you're going, it can be a serious emergency. Take a deep breath before you panic and try these tips. Make sure you check where you normally put your keys, or at the very least the last time you used them. First, look for areas in which they may have "drifted" or gotten lost under something. Then move to https://harvey-compton.blogbright.net/a-look-at-the-ugly-reality-about-car-replacement-key and the next. You may be surprised to find them in a spot you didn't expect. Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will require this information in the future in order to contact your dealer or a locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side of the door or on a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also included in the owner's manual. If you have an extra key, you should grab it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to keep a spare. You may have hidden it in a convenient location at home or handed it to your roommate or a family member. You should also try calling the police in your neighborhood to find out if they've turned in keys. It's not a bad idea to ask for help at your work or at school, too. You never know if someone has discovered your missing keys and is willing to return them to you.