How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and binge your latest TV show. You realize that your car keys have disappeared.

Be aware of your options prior to panic. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of they require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you lose your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. We often don't know where they are, particularly if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find keys. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse, or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost a car key your car key fob, you'll have to go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith could be able to make a replacement key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also get an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however this will be more expensive. The dealership must pair a computer chip with your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find an option close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It can also be used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new key that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even embedded into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacture.

VINs first came into use in 1954, however, until 1981, they were offered in a variety of formats. In that year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from most dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that can replace your key with one that can start your vehicle. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's more complicated than that. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.

While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys how to replace keys. This is important as the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side or found in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This is not a assurance however. It all depends on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle into the store and speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's lost or stolen, you'll have to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key to be reset and function properly.

The process is more complicated than it was previously be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. If your original key is stolen or damaged A dealership could provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all the necessary information, including an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.

Call a Locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A reputable locksmith can cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, they'll require the year model, make and model of your car along with evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will suffice).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you might have used. You may also search for your keys in places where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor behind a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to seek help.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is less than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance take your car to the dealership and purchase a new key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program a new key for more sophisticated automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number for your car, but locksmiths is likely to be able do it immediately.

Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you accidentally lock them in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to professionals.

A locksmith can assist you replace lost keys keys to your car that have been lost and give tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost car key replacement near me or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car key again.