How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and watch your favorite TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.

Know your options before you get in a panic. There are many ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of they require a locksmith or dealer.

Check your car's locks

It's best to inspect your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where they're especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for your car key. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. 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 the distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll have to go to the dealership to get a new one made.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these 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 purchase a new replacement from the dealership, but this will be more expensive. The dealership will have to pair a computer chip with your car, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your car.

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance plans and you are likely to find services close to 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 and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, or sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle, title, and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and motor easily get a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label located at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver's side door jamb or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.

You can check your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle's manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacture.

VINs first came into use in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, until 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

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. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past the loss of your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily call your local dealer and request a new set. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.

Although you could obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Before you contact anyone to replace your lost car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This is not a assurance however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as if the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request the service manager if aren't sure if they can assist.

If your smart key was stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to function correctly and reset.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price 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, be sure to have all the necessary information with you, as well as an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact an expert locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. An experienced locksmith can cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you'i ve lost my car keys what can i do inspected all possible places where your keys might be. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags you may have used. You can also look for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to seek help.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, such as transponder keys, motor smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car, but professional locksmiths will have the tools to do this in a flash for you.

Many locksmiths can also take out bent or broken keys that are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this task should be left to experts.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost in your car and offer tips on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.