How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You realize that your car keys are missing.

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

Check Your Car's Locks

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. After all, lost Car keys cost to replace we often forget where we put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and back as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for your car key. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost car keys cost To replace it.

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

The dealer may also offer the replacement, but it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Before you pay for the replacement of your car key be sure to check your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you might be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will be useful should you ever require it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you are likely to find a service near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes on the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, such as your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car and it's a good idea to keep it in a safe place. In the event that you should ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows to provide an security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and year of manufacture.

VINs were first used in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that can start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more difficult today. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your best option.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on the faster and for less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is important because it will be required to make 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. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether your dealer can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

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

The process is now more involved than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. A dealer can also give you a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route, be sure to have all the information needed along with you and an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. However, they will need to know the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally look for them, like the floor behind the table behind the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried all this and are still struggling to locate your keys, then it's time to call someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair keys on the spot for about $20. This is cheaper than the cost to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths should be able to complete the task in a flash.

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

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost locksmiths can also give you advice about how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.