How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and are ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and watch your favorite TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of them require a locksmith or dealer.

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often don't know where they are, especially when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to find keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully 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 in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you as long as you can provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase a new replacement from the dealership, but it will be more expensive. The dealer will need to connect a computer chip for your car. This could cost between $200 and $250, dependent on the car's make and model.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This can come in handy should you ever require it. There are numerous 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 alpha and numeric code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. 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 and sometimes even on the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car It's best to keep it somewhere safe. That way, if you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get an alternative key quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model that will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also find it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields to provide an security measure to prevent theft.

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

VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they were available in a variety. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also find standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could call your local dealership to get new keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your best option.

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

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is vital as it will be needed to create 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 guide.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a assurance, however. It depends on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether keys have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer 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 dealership for it to be replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a particular type of key to reset and work properly.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. A dealer can also provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost key car one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, be sure to carry all the necessary information on hand along with a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing lost car keys. A skilled locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before you call a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you have checked all possible places where your keys could be. Check the pockets of the pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor in front of a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to call someone.

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

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the car's VIN number, but a professional locksmith should have the right tools to complete this on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or key broken, which are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could result in further damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can give you advice about how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will assist you in avoiding losing your car keys once more.