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 realize your car keys aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to check your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're busy or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.

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

Some older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able to create keys for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

The dealer is also able to provide the replacement, but it will cost more. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could 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 check your insurance policy. You may be able claim your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Ask your insurance company whether they have roadside service coverage. This could come in handy if you ever need it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able to find one in your area.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle, title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's best to keep it safe. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of a security measure against theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, including the manufacturer, make and model the body style, the engine size assembly plant, and the year it was made.

VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were offered in various 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 obtain new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. If not, you can 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 get a new set. Today, it's more complex than that. The dealership may not be the best option for replacing a lost car key your lost car keys.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership.

Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because it will be needed in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This isn't a assurance however. It is dependent on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and ask for an expert in service if you aren't sure if they can help.

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 certain type of key in order to function correctly and reset.

The process is now more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to have this feature restored. A dealership will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, make sure you have all the necessary information along with you along with a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing lost car keys is to contact locksmith. A skilled locksmith will be able to cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before you call a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've checked every possible place where your keys could be. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You can also look for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.

A locksmith should be able replace lost car key traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is cheaper than the cost to have roadside assistance take your car to the dealership and buy a replacement key.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for replace lost car key cars that have more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the VIN number of your car however professional locksmiths should have the right tools to do this in a flash for you.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost in your car and give guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car keys once more.