How to Replace lost keys to car no spare Car Keys

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

Know your options before you be in a panic. There are many ways to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually contain an internal chip that connects to the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. You'll have to visit your dealer to purchase an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you, as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer will need to connect a computer chip for your car. It could cost between $200 and $250, depending on the make and model.

Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. It's also important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able locate one close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard and driver's side door jamb, and damaged sometimes on the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration, 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 easily and quickly get a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. You can also look for damaged it on the door jamb for the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of an security measure against theft.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and year of manufacture.

VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were available in different configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase 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 go to an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will start your car. Otherwise, you can simply buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.

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

Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car or could be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for a majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It's contingent on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for a service manager if you are unsure if they can assist.

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

The process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. A dealership will also be able to provide you with another key that's identical to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to do this ensure that you have all of the necessary information, including a photo ID. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Call a locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, check any other bags that you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've done this and still cannot find your keys, you should seek help.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths will be able to repair them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can offer advice on how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car key again.