How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Car keys are known for disappearing into couches, pockets or even out of sight. However, when they do, obtaining replacement keys isn't as difficult or costly as it may seem.

You can often get a spare key made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) which is usually located on your registration or title certificate.

Lost Keys

It used to be that losing keys to your car was a huge inconvenience. You could go to the local dealership and pay a small amount of cash, and then get an alternative key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology, this is no longer an option. The replacement of keys for a car that have been lost can be a lot more costly and time consuming.

The type of car key that you have is an important aspect in the cost you be charged for a replacement. The more basic "insert and turn" keys are not very popular in modern cars and therefore will be cheaper to replace. The first step is to identify what kind of key you have in your vehicle. You will usually do by looking at 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 each vehicle that is made by the manufacturer, and can be located by inspecting the door jamb or windshield washer reservoir of fluid. You can also find it in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver.

Auto locksmiths can be helpful in the event of a lost key, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also request an employee at your local hardware store to create a copy of your car key. If they have the correct key blanks, they'll generally do it for all automobile models and manufactures.

Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They will most likely be able to assist you with the process of losing your car keys, and they can also generally offer a replacement transponder if required. Some insurance companies offer car key replacement as an optional service. However, the cost could be quite high, particularly in the event of losing keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. The best way to avoid this is to always have an extra key on hand and keep it in a safe location.

Stolen Keys

If you are worried about your vehicle being stolen, it is important to report the key loss immediately. This will ensure that the key can't be used by an unauthorized person, which could lead to costly damage to your vehicle. This could include scratches on the doors, damage to the ignition and more. You can also file a police report to aid in identifying the person who took your key.

A high-quality car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to protect yourself against theft. These key fobs are not only more secure, but also have features like trunk releases remote engine starts and proximity systems, which let you lock and unlock your car with simply tapping the fob. It is advisable to always keep an extra fob at home in case you lose your car keys.

It is possible to replace a key that isn't an actual fob, but it takes longer and more effort. The blank key must be cut, and the key programmed to connect with your car's system of security. Locksmiths with the right tools and knowledge can do this, damaged but it's typically more expensive than replacing a lost key fob.

Another option is to get a new key at the dealership. It will cost more however, the dealer will have specific equipment that will help to prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The dealership will be able to copy your vehicle's ID number, which could be beneficial if you need to submit an official police report in the event of theft.

In certain instances you may have to bring your new key to the dealership to have it programmed to your vehicle. This is usually a quick procedure, however it may depend on the specific model of your vehicle. Bring your key and a valid photo ID and an original copy of your vehicle's title or registration to ensure that the technician can verify that you are the owner of the vehicle.

Key Damage

If you have a smart key that locks your car doors and then starts it, a damaged or defective key fob could cause issues. In these cases you'll need to replace the key fob for it to perform its purpose. Smart keys are susceptible to breaking and only last a certain amount of time. Many people have an extra car key replacements key.

If a key fob ceases to function, the battery is usually dead. You could try replacing the battery, but if that fails, you may have to replace the entire key fob. In this instance, it is best to take the key fob into the dealership. They'll have the equipment needed to make an entirely new key fob. They can reprogram it to your vehicle.

Keys naturally wear down when used but they can also be damaged in a variety of ways too. Inaccidents such as dropping your key on an un-porous surface or getting it stuck in a door can result in cracks and dents. These damages can make your key difficult to use, or impossible to use.

A locksmith can fix this problem quickly and easily, but it's important to use a qualified professional. You should not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This can cause more damage to your home or car.

One way to avoid this kind of issue is to store your key in a secure location when it's not being used. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost and also help protect your key from being damaged by the elements. Consider investing in a cover for your key. This will help to protect it against accidents and weather. This can help in preventing your key from being worn down or damaged completely.

Keys that are misplaced

It's a pain 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, tossed on the kitchen table while you ate your lunch, or fell out of your pocket while you were walking the dog. If keys are the only means to get you to where you're supposed to go and it's a real crisis.

But before you panic take a deep breath and try these tips:

Immediately check where you usually place your keys, or at least the last time you've had them. 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 so on. You may be surprised to find them in a location you'd never imagined.

Note down your car's VIN number (vehicle identification number) and the key number. You will need to know this information to contact your dealer or locksmith. Your VIN can be found on the driver-side door post or stamped onto a metal plate on the dashboard. It's also included in your owner's manual.

If you have an extra key, grab it. One of the most effective ways to prevent losing your car keys is to have an extra. You might have hid it in a safe place at home, or even given it to a roommate or family member.

It is also a good idea to contact the police in your neighborhood to find out if they've turned in any keys. It's not an ideal idea to inquire about your workplace or at school, too. You never know who could have found your keys and be willing to return them to you.