How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweats Grab a pizza and watch your favorite TV show. You discover that your car keys have disappeared.

Be aware of your options prior to be in a panic. There are a few different ways to replace car keys that have been lost, but most of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check your car's locks

When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where they're, especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.

A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've i lost my car keys what do i do it.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able create an alternative key for you, if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also purchase a new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer will need to connect the computer chip with your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.

Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Additionally, it's worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. There are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance programs. You should be able find one near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

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

Your VIN is unique to your car and it's best to keep it safe. In the event that you ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer for your specific model that will then work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. 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 and other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of a security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.

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

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who will replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could contact your local dealer to have new keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best option for replacing your lost car keys.

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

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your keys. This is crucial because it will be required in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% assurance, however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and fobs inquire for an expert in service if you aren't sure if they can assist.

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

This process is much more involved than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to restore this feature. A dealer can also provide you with another key that's identical to the one you have in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you opt to go this route, make sure you have all the information needed including an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. A skilled locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the table behind the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried this and still cannot find your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for about $20. This is cheaper than the cost for roadside assistance to tow your car to the dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program keys for more advanced types of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, but locksmiths is likely to be able cut and program the key immediately.

Locksmiths are also able to capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.

In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys replacement cost car keys, a locksmith can also offer advice on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.