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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. But if they do, getting replacement keys isn't as difficult or expensive as it might seem. You can usually get a spare key using your vehicle identification (VIN) found on your registration certificate or title certificate. Lost Keys It was the case that losing your car keys was a huge inconvenience. You could go to the dealership, pay a small amount of money and receive a new key. No longer, thanks to the latest advances in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the process to replace a lost car key can be more costly and time consuming. auto car key replacement of car key you have is a significant factor in the price you will have to pay for an alternative. The older metal “insert-and-turn” keys aren't as common 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. You will usually do by checking your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions. Next, you will need to find your car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique number that is assigned to every vehicle produced, and it can be found by checking the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir of fluid. It is also found in the owner's guide or on a sticker located under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of losing keys and are among the quickest and most affordable alternatives for replacing your car keys. You can also contact an employee at your local hardware store to make a copy of your car key. If they have the correct key blanks, they can generally do it for the majority of automobile models and manufactures. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They'll likely be able assist you with the process of losing your car keys and will generally provide a new transponder if required. Certain insurance companies provide car key replacement as an optional service. The cost could be high particularly when you lose a digital key fob. It is recommended to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it at any time. Stolen Keys Report the loss of your key immediately if you are concerned about your vehicle being stolen. This will help to ensure that the key will not be used by anyone who is not authorized that could cause costly damages to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition or door, as well as scratches and much more. You could also make a police report which may be useful in identifying who stole your key. A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself against theft. These key fobs are not 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. It's always an ideal idea to have an extra key fob home so that you're not stuck without your car if you lose your keys. A key that isn't a fob can still be replaced however it will require longer and require more effort. The key blank has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed in order that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith with the right tools and knowledge can do this, however 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 because the dealer has access to the latest equipment that can keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will be able to duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which is useful if you need to submit a police report in the event of a theft. In certain situations, you might have to take your new key to a dealer to be programmed. This is typically a fast procedure, however it may depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your keys along with an ID with a valid photo and the original of your car's title or registration so that the technician knows you are the owner. Key Damage A damaged key fob may cause problems if you own an electronic car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these cases, you'll need a replacement to ensure that the key fob can do its job. It's not uncommon for smart keys to break and have a short lifespan. This is why many people carry a spare car key. If a key fob isn't working, the battery is typically dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if this fails, you may require replacing the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to take the car key fob to a dealership. They'll have the tools needed to create the new key fob and can also reprogram it for your vehicle. Keys will naturally wear away when used but they can also be damaged in different ways as well. Accidents like dropping your key onto a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door could cause cracks and dents. These damage can make your keys difficult to use, or impossible. A locksmith can resolve this issue quickly and easily, but it's important to hire a professional who is certified. It is not advisable to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This could cause further damage to your home or vehicle. Place your key in a secure location when not in use to avoid this issue. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost and it will also protect it from damage caused by the elements. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help to safeguard it from accidents and weather. This will stop your key from being worn down or damaged. Keys that are misplaced It's difficult to lose your car keys. Whether they were dropped by a child in the grocery store, placed on the table where you ate lunch, or slipped out of your pockets while walking the dog, you're feeling like you've lost your most important personal possession. When the keys are your only means of getting to where you're going, it could be a true emergency. Take a deep breath before you get stressed and try these tips. Examine where you typically keep your keys or at a minimum, where you stored them the last time. Check first for places where they might have “drifted” or fallen under something. Then move on to the next location and then on. You might be amazed to discover them in places you didn't expect. Write down your car's VIN (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You'll need this information to contact your locksmith or dealer. Your VIN can be found on the driver's side of the door or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also found in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, grab it. The possession of a spare key is one of the best ways to ensure that you don't lose your car keys. It could be hidden in a convenient location at home, or have entrusted it to a roommate or family member. You can also call the police in your area to inquire if anyone has turned in a key. It's not a bad idea to ask around at your workplace or school as well. You never know if someone has found your missing keys and is willing to return them to you.