How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options prior to be in a panic. There are several ways to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to check your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where we've put them especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be relatively easy when your car is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver’s seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for your car key. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find keys. 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 an extended distance. These devices usually include an internal chip that connects to the car to let you into the vehicle and then start the engine. If you've lost my spare car key your car key fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get a new one created.

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

The dealer can also provide a replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership will need to pair a computer chip with your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your car.

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

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's 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 label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle, jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes on the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a security measure.

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

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were available 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 will be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.

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

Before you call anyone to replace your lost car keys, write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able help you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and inquire for an expert in service if you are unsure if they can assist.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher price to restore this feature. Dealers can also give you another key that's identical to the one you have in case your lost car keys no spare one was damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, be sure to have all the information needed with you, as well as an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Contact for a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys could be. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you might have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor in front of a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this but are still not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to call someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith will be able to repair them in a matter of $20. This is cheaper than what you would pay for roadside assistance to tow your vehicle to the dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program a new key for more advanced types of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the car's VIN number however, a professional locksmith should have the right tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged or bent keys that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. Trying to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, and this should be left to the professionals.

In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can also provide advice on how to replace a lost car key to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car keys ever again.