How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys aren't to be found.

Be aware of your options before you panic. There are several ways to replace a lost car key, but the majority of them require a locksmith or dealer.

Check the locks on your car.

It's best to inspect your car first if you lose your keys. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially when we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and back and how to Replace lost car key forth. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to locate keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually have an internal chip that can communicate with the car to allow you into the vehicle and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to get a new key fob if you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose 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.

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

Before you pay for an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This could be useful should you ever require it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you are likely to find services close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 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 much more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes on the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's best to keep it safe. 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 find the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacturing.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, until 1981 they were available in a variety of configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one 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 kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who will replace your key with one that will be able to start your vehicle. If not, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

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

While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.

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

Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It's contingent on the model and make of your car as well as whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key in order to reset and function properly.

The process is now more complex than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can offer you a similar 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 a locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. However, they will require the year and make of your vehicle, as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Make sure you check every possible location for how To replace lost car Key your keys prior to you call a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, check any other bags that you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you wouldn't normally look like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For traditional keys locksmiths should be able to replace keys in a matter of $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number for your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to do it on the spot.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this is something that should be left to the professionals.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are i lost my car keys what do i do in your car and provide tips on How To Replace Lost Car Key to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key once more.