How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. After all, we often forget where they're, especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding keys lost car key near me in the car can be relatively easy when your car 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. Be sure to look around compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Some older vehicles still have traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths are able to create a new key for you, how to replace lost car key as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also get an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Before you pay for an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. It's also worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one in your area.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. That way, if you lose your keys, you can utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label 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 front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954. However, until 1981, they were available in different configurations. 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 most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll need to go to 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

Not long ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They will be able get you back on the quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Before you call anyone to replace your car keys, write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because it will be needed to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard or included in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able to assist you. It depends on the make and model of your car, as well as whether keys have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request an expert in service if you are unsure if they can help.

If your smart key has been lost or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to be reset and function 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. If your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to go this way, make sure you have all of the information needed, including a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.

Contact a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or How To Replace Lost Car Key title should suffice).

Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor under the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are unable to find your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith will be able to repair keys in a matter of $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more sophisticated cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the car's VIN number however a professional locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or broken, which are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys locksmiths can also provide advice on how to replace lost car key to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car keys again.