How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a variety of ways to replace a lost car key, but the majority of they require a locksmith or dealership.

Check your car's locks

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially when we're distracted or in a rush. Finding lost car keys can be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for the car key. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for 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. These devices usually have an internal chip that connects to the car in order to let you into the vehicle and then 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.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be able to create a new key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide an alternative, 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 make a payment for the replacement of your car key be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This can help in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages, so you should be able to find services close to you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle and jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. This way, should you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get an alternative key quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from most dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could just call your local dealership to have new keys made. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you can certainly still get a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership.

Before calling someone to replace your car keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car, or may be found in the owner's manual.

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

If your smart key has been lost keys of car or Lost Keys of car stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key to function correctly and reset.

This process is more involved than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to have this feature restored. In the event that your original key is damaged or stolen A dealership could offer you a similar backup. If you decide to take this route, make sure to carry all the necessary information along with you, as well as a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call a Locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you've checked every possible spot where your keys may be. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places you might not normally go like the floor behind the table behind the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all this and are still unable to find your keys, then it's time to contact someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith will be able to repair keys on the spot for around $20. This is less than what you would pay for roadside assistance to tow your vehicle to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.

Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, but locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task in a flash.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can help you replace keys that are lost in your car and offer tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will aid you in never losing your car keys ever again.