A Look Into The Future What's The Replacement Car Key Industry Look Like In 10 Years? How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Car keys are prone to the habit of disappearing in pockets, in between cushions on couches or even completely out of sight. When they do, replacing them isn't nearly as expensive or difficult as you might think.

You may be able to get an extra key that is made using your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually on your title or registration certificate.

Lost Keys

It used to be that losing your car keys was a major inconvenience. You could just go to the local dealership and pay a small amount of money, and receive an alternate key. With the advancements in anti-theft and car security technology it is no longer an option. Now, the procedure to replace a lost car key can be a lot more costly and time consuming.

The kind of key you have will determine the price. The older metal "insert-and-turn" keys are less common in modern vehicles which is why they are less expensive to replace. The first step is to determine what kind of key you have in your vehicle. You will usually do by checking the ring on your key or calling your dealer for specific instructions.

The next thing you need to find is the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your car. This is a unique code that is assigned to each vehicle manufactured, and it can be found by looking at the door jamb, or windshield washer fluid reservoir. It is also found in the owner's manual, or on a sticker under the driver's side of the dashboard.

Auto locksmiths can often help when you have a lost key and are among the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also contact an employee at the local hardware store to make duplicate copies of your vehicle key. They can usually do this for most makes and models of vehicles provided they have the appropriate key blanks.

Another option is to contact roadside assistance. They can assist you with the replacement of the car key that was lost and will usually be able to provide a replacement transponder. Certain insurance companies offer car key replacement as an option. However, the cost can still be high, especially if you lose keys that are linked with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep an extra car key in a safe location and keep it available at all times.

Stolen Keys

Report the loss of your keys immediately if you're worried about the theft of your vehicle. This will ensure that the key can't be used by a unauthorized person, which could lead to expensive damage to your car. This could result in scratches on the doors and the ignition, as well as damage to the door and more. auto key replacement cost may also file a police report, which may be useful in identifying who took your key.

A premium car-specific keyfob is one of the best ways to safeguard yourself from theft. These key fobs are not only more secure, but they also come with features like trunk release, remote engine starts, and proximity systems, which let you lock and unlock your car with simply pressing the fob. It's always recommended to keep a spare key fob at home to ensure that you're not stranded without your car should you lose your keys.

It is possible to replace a key that isn't an fob, however it requires longer and more effort. The blank of the key needs to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed so that it works with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right equipment and expertise can do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.

A replacement key can be purchased at the dealership. It will cost more, but it is also an option that is safer because the dealer has access to specialized equipment that can help keep your car from being stolen. The dealership will have a duplicate of your vehicle's identification number, which could be beneficial if you need to make an investigation in the event of a theft.

In some cases you may have to take your new key to a dealer to have it programmed. It's usually a simple process, but can vary according to the model of your vehicle. Bring your key and an acceptable photo ID, and a copy of your car's title or registration to ensure that the technician can verify that you are the owner.

Key Damage

A damaged key fob can cause issues if you've got an electronic car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these instances, you will need to replace the key fob in order to ensure it is able to perform its job. It's not unusual for smart keys to fail and they have a limited lifespan. Many people carry an extra car key.


Most of the time, when a key fob doesn't working, it is because its battery has died. You could try replacing the battery, but if that isn't working, you might have to replace the entire key fob instead. If this is the case, it's best to bring the car key fob to a dealership. They will have all the tools needed to make a new key fob and can also reprogram your vehicle.

Keys will naturally wear away with use, but they can be damaged in different ways as well. Inaccidents such as dropping your key onto the hard 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 solve this problem quickly and efficiently, but you should only employ an expert. You should not attempt to repair a damaged key yourself. This could cause further damage to your vehicle or your home.

A good way to prevent this type of problem is to keep your keys in a secure location when not in use. This will reduce the chance of it being stolen or lost, and will help to protect your key from being damaged by elements outside. Consider investing in a protective cover for your key. This will help to safeguard it from accidents and weather. This can help in preventing your key from wearing down or being completely damaged.

Keys that are misplaced

It's difficult to lose your car keys. If they were dropped by a child in the supermarket, placed on the table where you had lunch or left in your pocket while walking the dog, you feel as if you've lost your most important personal possession. And when keys are your only means of getting to where you're going, it could be a serious emergency.

Take a deep breath before you panic, and try these tricks.

Immediately check where you usually place your keys, or at a minimum the last time you had them. Check first for places where they might have "drifted" or been lost under something. Then, you can move to the next spot. You might 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'll require this information in the future, either to call your dealer or a locksmith. You can find your VIN on the driver's side door post or stamped on a metal plate that is on the dashboard. You can also find it in your owner's guide.

If you have a spare key, reach to it. One of the best ways to avoid losing your car keys is to have a spare. You may have hidden it in a convenient location at home or given it to your roommate or a family member.

You can also call the police station in your town to inquire whether anyone has handed in keys. It's not good to ask around at your workplace or school, too. You never know when someone has found your missing keys, and they might be willing to give them back to you.