How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and watch the latest TV show. However, you realize your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.

Check your car's locks

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we've put them particularly when we're rushing or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for the car key. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to find the keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse, or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars 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 let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need visit the dealership to have an alternative one created.

Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths are in a position to make a replacement key for you, as long as you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade at the dealership, however this will be more expensive. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your car, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key make sure you 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. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance and you are likely to find services close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It can also be used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as the registration of your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

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

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label situated between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even written into your windshield or windows as part of an security measure to prevent theft.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an entire report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, make and model, body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was made.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, until 1981, they were available in different configurations. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from most dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. For example, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that will be able to start your car. You can also purchase regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

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

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, Keys Lost For Car your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important as the person who needs it will create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle or could be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It is all dependent on the model and make, and whether the keys are intelligent or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.

If your smart key has been stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. 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 more complex than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. A dealer can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, be sure you have all the required information with you along with an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.

Call an expert locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step to replace keys for your car that have been lost. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you've used. You may also look for your keys in places that you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to seek help.

A locksmith should be able to replace lost car key cost traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number for your vehicle, but locksmiths is likely to be able cut and program the key immediately.

Locksmiths are also able to capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, so this task should be left to professionals.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and give guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car keys ever again.