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 realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.

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

Check the locks on your car.

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often don't know where they are, particularly when we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately the search for lost car keys isn't difficult if you take the time to do a thorough search of your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats forward and back as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for your car key. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate the keys. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag, for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. These devices usually contain an internal chip that can communicate to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and start the motor. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith may be able create a replacement key for you if you've got evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership will need to integrate a computer chip into your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your car.

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key be sure to check your insurance policy. You may be able claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Additionally, it's worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you will be able to locate a service close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into a label or plate on your car's dashboard, jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of a security measure against theft.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of its production.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that will be able to start your vehicle. You can also purchase regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could just contact your local dealership to get new keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an auto lock. They are more likely to be able to get you back on the road fast and will probably charge less than the dealership.

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

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll assist you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle into the store and speak with the service manager.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and function correctly.

This process is more complex than it was previously be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. Dealers can also give you a backup key that's similar to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, make sure to have all the necessary information on hand Replace Lost Car Keys and an identification photo. 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 price keys to your car. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. However, they will require the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Be sure to check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You may also search 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 of this but are still unable to find your keys, it's time to call someone.

For keys that are traditional, a locksmith will be able to repair them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to the dealership and purchase a new key.

Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the car's VIN number however professional locksmiths should have the right tools to complete this in a flash for you.

Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you accidentally lock them in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to professionals.

A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will aid you in never losing your car key once more.