10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden That'll Help You With Replacement Car Key How to Get a Replacement Car Key

Car keys are known to have a habit of disappearing into pockets, under couch cushions or just out of sight completely. But if they do, obtaining replacement keys isn't as difficult or costly as it may seem.

It is common to obtain a spare key that's made with your vehicle identification number (VIN) that is usually found on your registration or title certificate.

Lost Keys

It used to be an enormous hassle when you lost your car keys. You could visit your local dealership and pay a small amount of money, and get an alternative key. With the advancements in anti-theft and security for cars technology the process is no longer possible. The replacement of the lost car key could be more costly and time-consuming.

The type of key you're using will determine the price. Older basic metal "insert and turn" keys aren't very popular in modern cars which is why they are more affordable to replace. The first step is to identify what kind of key you have in your car, which you typically do by taking a look at the ring on your key or calling your dealer for specific instructions.

The next thing you need to do is determine the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle. This is a unique vehicle identification number (VIN) that is located on the door jambs or windshield washer reservoir. It is also available in the owner's guide or on a sticker beneath the driver's dashboard.

Auto locksmiths can be helpful when you have a lost key, and they are one of the fastest and most affordable options for car key replacement. You can also go to your local hardware store and ask a staff member whether they can cut you a copy of your key. If they have the right key blanks, they can generally do it for all vehicle models and makes.

You can also reach out to roadside assistance. They can assist you with the process of replacing a lost car key and will typically be capable of providing an alternative transponder. Some car insurance providers even offer a replacement car key service as an additional benefit. However, the cost could be quite high, particularly if you lose the key that you have paired with an electronic car fob. It is best to keep the spare car key in a safe location and keep it at all times.

Stolen Keys

If you are concerned about your car being stolen, it's essential to report the loss right away. This will ensure that the key will not be used by anyone who is not authorized, which could result in expensive damage to your vehicle. This could include damage to the ignition and door, scratches and much more. You may also file a formal police report that could aid in identifying the person who took your key.

One of the best things you can do to protect yourself from theft is to purchase an expensive, car-specific key fob. They're not just more secure than regular keys however, they also come with features like trunk release remote engine start, trunk release and proximity systems that let you lock and unlock your vehicle with just a tap on the fob. Always keep an extra fob at home in case you lose the keys to your car.

It is possible to replace a key that's not a fob, but it takes more time and effort. The key blank has to be cut, and the key needs to be programmed to ensure that it can be used with your car's security system. A locksmith who has the right tools and knowledge can do this, but it's typically more expensive than replacing the lost key fob.

A replacement key can be obtained at the dealer. It will cost more however, the dealer will have special equipment that can help protect your vehicle from being stolen. The dealer will also have a copy of your vehicle's identification number, which can be used to file an police report in case your vehicle is stolen.

In some instances you may need to bring your new key to the dealership and 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 and an ID photo that is valid, as well as a copy of your registration or title of your vehicle so that the technician can confirm your ownership.

Key Damage

A damaged key fob can cause problems if you have a smart car key that locks and opens your vehicle. In these situations you'll need to replace the key to ensure the key fob can perform its function. It's not common for smart keys to break and they have a short lifespan. This is one reason why a lot of people have a spare car key.

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

Keys are prone to wear and tear as they use them but they can also be damaged in various ways too. Accidents like dropping your key on an un-porous surface or getting it stuck in a door may result in cracks and dents. These damages can 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 employ a professional. You should not attempt to fix a broken key yourself. This could cause more damage to your vehicle or your home.

One way to avoid this kind of issue is to keep your key in a secure location when it's not in use. This will decrease the chance of your key being stolen or lost, and also protect it from damage caused by the elements. It is also recommended to invest in a case to protect your key to further protect it from accidents or weather. This will help prevent your key from becoming worn down or even damaged completely.

Misplaced Keys

There are few things more annoying than misplacing your car keys. You feel like you have lost your most precious personal possession, no matter if they were thrown out of the supermarket by a child, left on your kitchen table while you ate lunch or slipped out of your pocket while you were walking your dog. If key replacements for cars are the only way to get you to where you're going, it can become an actual crisis.

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

Find out where you usually keep your keys, or at the very least, where you kept them the last time. Sometimes they "drift" to the side or end up underneath something, so check those spots first. Then, you can move to the next location. You might be surprised to discover them in a location you didn't expect.

Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car and its key number. You will need to know this information in order to contact your locksmith or dealer. You can locate your VIN on the driver's side doorpost or stamped on a metal plate on the dashboard. You can also locate it in your owner's guide.


If you have an extra key, take it. Having a spare is among the best things you can do to prevent losing your car keys. You might have hidden it in a convenient place at your home, or you may have given it to your roommate or a family member.

You should also try calling the police in your area to find out if they've turned in any keys. It's not a bad idea to ask around at your workplace or at school, too. You never know who could have found your keys and be prepared to return them to you.