how to replace a lost car key to Replace lost a car key Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace car keys lost no spare (research by the staff of Plantsg) keys that have been lost but the majority require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. After all, we often forget where they're, especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy when you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. These devices typically contain an internal chip that connects with the car to let you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith might be able create a replacement key for you if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide the replacement however it will cost more. The dealership must pair a computer chip with your car, which can be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. You may be able claim on your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able to find one near you.

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, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even on the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. This way, should you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a prevention measure.

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

VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from most dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

Although you could purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to call an auto locksmith. They are more likely to be capable of getting you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership.

Before calling anyone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be printed in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This is not a guarantee, however. It's contingent on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a particular type of key to reset and function correctly.

The process is now more complicated than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to have this feature restored. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route ensure that you have all the necessary information, including an ID photo. This will help everyone to get through the process.

Contact an expert locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A reputable locksmith can cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you may have used. You could 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 of these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

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

Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this task should be left to the professionals.

A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also give advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can help in ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.