How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options before you get in a panic. There are many methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require a dealership or replacement a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where they are, replacement especially if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for your car key. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to locate the keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually include an internal chip that communicates to the car to let you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you as long as you can provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Before you pay for a car key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage that will aid you in the case of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one near 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's used to identify vehicles, keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. In the event that you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label situated at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.

You can check your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacture.

VINs first came into use in 1954, but up to 1981, they came in a variety of configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to get new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that can start your car. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to call an automotive lock. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because it will be needed to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car, or may be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able to help you. It depends on the model and make of your vehicle as well as whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your car into the store and speak with the service manager.

If your smart key was lost or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a specific kind of key to reset and work correctly.

The process is now more involved than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to have this feature restored. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all the required information including a photo ID. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Contact a locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact an experienced locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).

Before you call a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you've checked every possible place where your keys could be. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you've used. You may also look for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to seek help.

For traditional keys, a locksmith should be able to replace them in a matter of $20. This is cheaper than the cost for roadside assistance to tow your vehicle to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of your car however, professional locksmiths has the right tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself could result in further damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost locksmiths can also provide advice on how to stop future keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.