How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You discover that your car keys have disappeared.

Be aware of your options before you panic. There are several ways to replace lost car keys, but most of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where we've put them, especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding keys lost key for car what to do in the car can be fairly simple when your car is thoroughly searched.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for the car key. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices usually include an internal chip that connects to the car in order to let you into the vehicle and then start the motor. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a new one created.

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

The dealer is also able to provide the replacement however, it will cost more. The dealer must connect the computer chip with your car. It could cost between $200 and $250, depending on the make and model.

Before you pay for a car key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This will come in handy if you ever need it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance plans which means you will be able to locate services near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle and the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration title, insurance and car key lost Replacement title documents.

It is important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. This way, should you should ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins 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. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981 they were available in a variety of configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to get new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will require a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago the loss of your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership would.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is vital as it will be required in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be printed in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a assurance, however. It is dependent on your make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. If you're not sure whether not your dealership can help you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and function correctly.

This process is much more involved than it was in the past, so be sure that you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. If your original key is lost or damaged A dealership could provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure to have all the necessary information on hand Car Key Lost Replacement and an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call a Locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing lost car keys is to call locksmith. A locksmith with expertise will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. However, they will require the year, make and model of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).

Before you call a locksmith over the phone however, ensure that you have checked all possible places where your keys might be. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places you might not normally go like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call for help.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is less than the cost for roadside assistance to tow your Car Key Lost Replacement to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number of your car, but a locksmith will be able to complete the task in a flash.

The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car lost key. The attempt to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, so this should be left to professionals.

In addition to helping you replace lost car keys locksmiths can also provide advice on how to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car key ever again.