How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your favorite sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you realize your car keys aren't to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys replaced car keys however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check your car's locks

If you've lost your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where they are, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly easy when your car is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal chip that connects with the car to allow you into the vehicle and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be able to create a new key for you as long as you can provide evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your car, which can be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Before you pay for the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy, you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Check with your insurance provider whether they have roadside service coverage. This can help in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you will be able to locate services near you.

Check your vehicle's identification (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 is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe. That way, if you should ever lose your keys, you can utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock which can then be used 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 look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and i lost my only car key other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a prevention measure.

Enter your VIN into an 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 production.

VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were offered 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 correct, then you should be able to obtain new keys at the majority of dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. For example, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can swap your key for one that will start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you may obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road in a hurry and probably cost less than the dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is important because you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This is not a guarantee however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. If you're unsure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

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

This process is much more complex than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen A dealership could provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to take this route, be sure you have all the information needed along with you and an ID photo. This will facilitate the process for i lost my only car key everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing lost auto key replacement car keys is to call a locksmith. A reputable locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, check any other bags that you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of this but are still struggling to locate your keys, then it's time to call someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths should be able to replace them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance take you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program a new key for more advanced models of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of the car however professional locksmiths should have the right tools to do this in a flash for you.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this task should be left to the professionals.

A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also give advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being i lost My only car key or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys again.