How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Know your options before you be in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys but the majority require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they are, especially if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is relatively easy if you take the time to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to find keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still have keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths are capable of creating a new key for you, as provided you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer must connect the computer chip with your car. This can cost between $200 and $250, depending on the make and model.

Before you make a payment for a car key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This can be useful should you ever require it. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one near you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

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

It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get an alternative key quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of an security measure against theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an entire report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year it was manufactured.

VINs were first introduced in 1954, however, until 1981, they were available in a variety. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to get new keys at the majority of dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace lost car key cost your key. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on the faster and for less than the dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because you will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for Replace Lost Car Keys the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll assist you. It all depends on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for an expert in service if you are unsure if they can help.

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

This process is more complicated than it was previously be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen the dealership will be able to offer you a similar backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all the information needed, including a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact an expert locksmith

The most important step in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to call an experienced locksmith. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys before you contact a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in pants and jackets or purses, as well as any other bags you've used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, like on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to seek help.

For traditional keys locksmiths is likely to be able replace keys in a matter of $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance take you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more sophisticated automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, however a locksmith should be able to complete the task immediately.

The majority of locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own can cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to the professionals.

A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.