How to Replace lost car key Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. But, you realize that your car keys aren't to be found.

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

Check your car's locks

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they're, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car isn't difficult if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices usually contain an internal chip that communicates to the car to let you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still have keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be capable of creating a new key for you as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide a replacement, but it will cost more. The dealer will have to connect the computer chip with your car. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on the make and model.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will come in handy if you ever need it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able to locate one close to you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, such as your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car It's best to keep it somewhere safe. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get an alternative key quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label located where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb of the driver or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even embedded into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.

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

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

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from a variety of 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 have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago, losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily contact your local dealer to purchase a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

Although you could get a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your way faster and charge less than the dealership.

Before you call someone to replace your lost car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial because it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be found in the owner's guide.

Dealerships are able to replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. This is not a warranty, however. It's contingent on the make and model of your car and whether or not the keys have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle into the store and speak with the service manager.

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

This process is much more complex than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to do this, make sure you have all of the required information, including an ID photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.

Call for a locksmith

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

Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places where 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 but are still not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to call someone.

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

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the car's VIN number, but professional locksmiths will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you accidentally lock them in your car. Trying to remove a broken key on your own could cause more damage, and this task should be left to the experts.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.