How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. You realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Know your options before you panic. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of they require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where they are, particularly if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy if you take the time to do a thorough search of your vehicle.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and back and forth. Also, check the compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have 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 a new one made.

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

The dealer may also offer an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealer will need to connect an electronic chip to your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's model and make.

Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing lost keys to a car a key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able locate one close to you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's a good idea to keep it safe. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new key that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the 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 on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of a anti-theft measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle's model, manufacturer body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its 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 the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. 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 most ideal option.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They're more likely to be capable of getting you back on the road quickly and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you call someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because it will be required in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be printed in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll assist you. It is dependent on your model and make, and whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.

If your smart key has been lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security features require a particular type of key to reset and work correctly.

This process is much more involved than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. Dealers can also give you an alternative key that is similar to the original one in the event that your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you choose to do this ensure that you have all the information needed including a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.

Contact a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith prices for lost car keys who has experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will require the year, make, and model of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith's number However, you must ensure that you have checked all possible places where your keys might be. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor Replace Lost Car Keys behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've tried all this and are still unable to find your keys, then it's time for you to contact someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith should be able to replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance take your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new one.

Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the car's VIN number however, an experienced locksmith will have the tools to do this right on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can offer advice on how to stop future keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.