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How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys have a habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions or just out of sight completely. When they do, relocating them isn't nearly as expensive or difficult as you think. You can usually get a spare key by using your vehicle identification (VIN) found on your registration certificate or title certificate. Lost Keys It used to be that losing keys to your car was a huge inconvenience. You could go to the dealership, pay a small amount of money and receive a new key. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. The replacement of a lost key is now more expensive and time-consuming. The kind of key you have will determine the cost. The more basic “insert and turn” keys are not very common in modern cars which is why they are more affordable to replace. The first step is to determine what kind of key you have in your car, which you can usually do by taking a look at your key ring or by calling your dealer for specific instructions. The next step is to find the car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs and windshield washer reservoir. It is also available in the owner's manual or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths are usually able to help you replace keys for your car that have been lost. They are also one of the most cost-effective and quick alternatives. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask the associate whether they can cut a duplicate copy of your key. They can usually do this for the majority of makes and models of vehicles, as long as they have the right key blanks. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can help you with the replacement of the car key that was lost and are usually in a position to supply a replacement transponder. Certain insurance companies offer car key replacement as an optional service. However, the cost could still be expensive, especially when you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. The best way to prevent this is to always keep a spare key available and keep it in a secure location. Stolen Keys If you are worried about your vehicle being stolen, it's crucial to report the loss right away. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person and could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You could also file a police report, which could be helpful in identifying the person who took your key. One of the best things you can do to safeguard yourself from theft is to purchase an expensive, car-specific key fob. They are not just more secure than regular keys, but they also include features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle by pressing the fob. It's always recommended to keep an extra key fob at home so that you're not left without your car in the event that you lose your keys. A key that isn't a fob can still be replaced, but it will take more work and time. The blank key has to be cut and then the key programmed to function with your car's system of security. Locksmiths with the right tools and experience is able to do this, but it is typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. A replacement key can be obtained at the dealership. It will cost more however, it's an option that is safer since the dealer has access to the latest equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy your vehicle's identification number, which can be used to file an police report in case your car is ever stolen. In some instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to be able to program it into your vehicle. It is usually a simple process, but can vary depending on your vehicle's model. Bring your keys along with an acceptable photo ID, and a copy of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician knows you are the owner. Key Damage If you have an electronic key that locks your car doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure that the fob can do its job. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and last only a short time. Many people carry an additional car key. If a key-fob ceases to function, the battery is typically dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if that isn't working, you might need to replace the entire key fob. In this instance it is recommended to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have all the equipment necessary to create a new key fob and they can also reprogram your car. Keys wear out with regular use, but they can also be damaged due to various causes. Inaccidents such as dropping your keys on a hard surface or getting it stuck in a door may cause cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use, or impossible to use. A locksmith can resolve this issue quickly and efficiently however, you should employ an experienced locksmith. It is not advisable to fix a broken or damaged key yourself. This can cause more damage to your house or car. Keep your keys in a secure place when not in use to avoid this problem. This can lower the likelihood of it being lost or stolen and also help keep your key from getting damaged by outside elements. Consider purchasing a protective cover for your key. This will help to safeguard it from accidents and weather. This will help prevent your key from being worn down or being completely damaged. Keys that are lost Keys There aren't many things more frustrating than losing your car keys. Whether replacement key fobs for cars were dropped by a child in the store or placed on the table where you had lunch, or slipped out of your pocket while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most important personal item. When the keys are your only way to get where you're going, it could be a real emergency. But before you panic, take a deep breath, and try these suggestions: Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them last time. Sometimes, they “drift” to the side or are lost beneath something, so make sure to look in those places first. Then, move to the next location, and then on. You may be surprised to find them in places you didn't expect. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle and the key number. You will require this information in the future or to contact your dealer or a locksmith. Your VIN is located on the driver-side door post or stamped onto a metal plate in the dashboard. It's also found in your owner's manual. If you have an extra key, reach for it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to keep an extra. You may have hidden it in a safe place at home or handed it to a roommate or family member. It is also a good idea to contact the police in your area to see whether they've surrendered keys. You can also ask around your workplace or school. You never know when someone has found your keys missing and is willing to return them to you.