How to Get a Replacement Car Key Car keys are known for disappearing in pockets, couches or out of sight. However, when they do, getting replacement keys isn't as difficult or costly as it may appear. It is common to obtain a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually on your registration or title certificate. Lost Keys It was a major inconvenience when you lost your car keys. You could go to the dealership and pay the small amount and receive a new key. Not anymore, with today's technological advancements in car security and anti-theft technology. Today, the process to replace the lost car key could be much more expensive and time-consuming. The type of car key you have is a significant element in the cost you be charged for the replacement. The older, basic metal insert and turn keys are not very popular in modern cars, so they will be more affordable to replace. You can identify the type of key in your car by looking at the key ring, or by calling your dealer. The next thing you need to do is determine the vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. This is a unique number that is assigned to each vehicle that is made and is located by checking the door jamb, or windshield washer reservoir for fluid. It is also available in the owner's manual, or on a sticker placed under the driver's side of the dashboard. Auto locksmiths can often help in the case of losing keys and are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also visit your local hardware store and ask a staff member whether they can cut you a copy of your key. As long as they have the right key blanks, they will generally do it for the majority of automobile models and brands. Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you in the replacement of the car key that was lost and are usually in a position to supply an alternative transponder. Some car insurance providers even provide a key replacement service as an additional benefit. However, the cost can still be high, especially in the event of losing keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. It is recommended to keep an extra car key in a secure location and to have it at all times. Stolen Keys If you are worried about your vehicle being stolen, it's essential to report the loss as soon as you notice it. This will help to ensure that the key isn't used by unauthorized people that could cause costly damage to your vehicle. This can include scratches on the doors or the ignition and much more. You may also file a formal police report to assist in identifying the person who took your key. One of the most effective things you can do to guard yourself against theft is to invest in a high-quality, car-specific key fob. They are not just more secure than regular keys, but they also include features such as trunk release, remote engine start and proximity systems that allow you to lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. Always keep an extra fob at home in the event that you lose your car keys. It is possible to replace a key that's not an actual fob, but it takes longer and requires more effort. The blank key must be cut, and the key programmed to work with the security system of your vehicle. Locksmiths with the right tools and knowledge can do this, however it's usually more expensive than replacing a lost key fob. Another option is to purchase a replacement key at the dealership. It will cost more, but the dealer has special equipment that can help protect your car from being taken. The dealership will have a copy of your vehicle's ID number, which can be beneficial if you need to file a police report in the event of theft. In certain instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and have it programmed to your vehicle. It is usually a simple process, but it can depend on the particular model of your vehicle. Bring your key, a valid photo ID and the original of your car's title or registration so that the technician can verify that you are the owner. Key Damage If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and starts it, a damaged key fob can cause problems. In these instances you'll need replace the key fob in order to ensure it is able to perform its function. It's not common 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 usually dead. You may try replacing the battery, but if that fails, you may need to replace the entire key fob instead. In this case it is recommended to bring the key fob to an auto dealer. They'll have the tools needed to make a new key fob, and also reprogram your car. Keys will naturally wear away with use but they can also be damaged in a variety of ways too. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on a hard surface or securing it in a door can cause dents and cracked. These damages could make it difficult or impossible to use your key in the future. A locksmith can solve the issue quickly and effectively, but you should only work with an experienced locksmith. Do not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause more damage to your home or car. A good way to prevent this kind of issue is to store your key in a safe place when not in use. This will lower the risk of your key being stolen or lost and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. You should also think about investing in a protective case for your key to protect it from accidents or weather. This will stop your key from being damaged or worn down. Keys that are lost It's difficult to lose your car keys. You're feeling like you've lost your most valuable personal possession, no matter if they were tossed out of the supermarket by a child, left on the table in your kitchen while you ate your lunch or fell out of your pockets while you were walking the dog. If the keys are your only way to get to where you're headed, it could be a real emergency. But before you get scared, take a deep breath and try these tips: Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them last time. Check first for places where they may have drifted or fallen under something. Then move on to the next spot, and then on. You may be surprised to find them in a location you'd never imagined. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and the key number. You'll need this information later, either to call your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped on a steel plate that is located on the dashboard. You can also locate it in the owner's guide. If you have an extra key, take it. Having a spare is among the most effective options to avoid losing your car keys. You might have hid it in a safe place at home, or even given it to a family member or roommate. You can also contact the police in your area to find out who has turned in keys. It's not good to ask around at your workplace or school as well. car replacement key near me know who might have found your keys, and be prepared to return them.
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