How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially when we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy when your car key lost no spare is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for the car key. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to find the keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to get the new key fob in case you've lost key in car it.

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

You can also get a new replacement from the dealership, but this will be much more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your car. It could cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's make and model.

Before you purchase an auto key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will be useful should you ever require it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance, so you will be able to locate services near you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a label that is placed on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the driver's side door jamb, 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 written into your windows or windshields as part of an 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's manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of its manufacturing.

VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981 they were available in various 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 get new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For example, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that will be able to start your vehicle. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. Today, it's a lot more complex than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They can get you back on the quicker and cost at a lower cost than the dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is important because someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car or could be printed in the owner's guide.

Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% guarantee however. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. If you're not sure whether the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features in your car require a specific type of key in order to reset and function properly.

This process is much more involved than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key lost is stolen or damaged, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to do this, make sure you have all the information needed including an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith prices for lost car keys

Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely 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).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. Examine the 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 that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, then it's time to call someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for around $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 keys for more advanced models of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car however, a professional locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this task should be left to experts.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can also give you advice about how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could aid you in never losing your car keys again.