How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options before you get in a panic. There are several ways to replace lost car keys, but most of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check your car's locks

It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and back and forth. Be sure to feel around compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from the distance. They usually include an internal chip that connects to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith may be able to make a replacement key for you if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

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

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance programs. 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 is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, and much more. In the United States, the VIN is typically the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents such as your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your particular model that will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver's side, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a security measure.

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

VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from most dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending 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 purchase regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best option in case you want to replace your lost car keys.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an auto lock. They can get you back on your way faster and charge less than a dealership.

Before calling anyone to replace your lost car keys, write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be included in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace lost car key cost car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll be able assist you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request a service manager if you are unsure if they can help.

If your smart key was stolen or lost it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key in order to function correctly and reset.

This process is much more complex than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen the dealership will be able to provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route ensure you have all of the information needed, including a photo ID. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Contact a locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Before you get a locksmith on the phone however, ensure that you have checked every possible place where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets or purses, as well as any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor in front of a doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.

For traditional keys locksmiths is likely to be able replace keys in a matter of $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance transport your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but professional locksmiths has the right tools to do this on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself can cause further damage.

In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can provide advice on how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car key ever again.