How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You discover that your car keys are missing.

Be aware of your options prior to panic. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of they require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they're particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy when your car is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and lost car keys cost to Replace backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for the car key. Also, feel around small compartments or zippered areas to locate keys. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.

A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal chip that communicates with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and then start the motor. You'll need to go to your dealer to get the new key fob in case you've lost it.

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

The dealer is also able to provide a replacement, but it will cost more. The dealership will have to pair a computer chip with your car, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your car.

Before you make a payment for an auto key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. You may be able claim your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one in your area.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places such as your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. 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 majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver or on the front of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with the complete information about your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model, body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.

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

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to get new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to a dealer or locksmith that will replace your key with one that can start your car. If not, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past losing your car keys was not an issue. You could contact your local dealer to get new keys made. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is crucial because it will be needed to create a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a guarantee however. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and request the service manager if are unsure whether they can assist.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost car keys with no spare or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to reset and function correctly.

This process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also give you an alternative key that is similar to the one you have in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, be sure what to do if lost car keys carry all the required information along with you along with an ID photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.

Contact a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. However, they will need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. Check the pockets of jackets, pants and purses. Also, check any other bags you may have used. You may also look for your keys in places that you might not normally go like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you have done this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to seek help.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance take your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths should be able to cut and program the key immediately.

Many locksmiths can also take out bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.

A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys again.