How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several 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 key lost replacement

When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to find the keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag with care for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices typically include an internal chip that connects with the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need to go to the dealership to get a new one created.

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

The dealer is also able to provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your car, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Additionally, it's worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will aid you in the case of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able locate one close to you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

It's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. That way, if you should ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your particular model which can then be used with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a prevention measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an entire report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, model and make body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year it was made.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were available in different configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that will start your vehicle. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could simply contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.

While you can certainly still get a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can get you back on the way faster and charge less than a dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to Replace lost car key your keys. This is important because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able to help you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or not your dealership can help 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 need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to function correctly and reset.

This process is more complex than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. A dealership will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all of the information needed including a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for replace Lost Car key everyone involved.

Call an expert locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith with expertise will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected every possible spot where your keys might be. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you might have used. You can also look for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried all this but are still struggling to locate your keys, it's time for you to call someone.

For traditional keys locksmiths should be able to replace them on the spot for about $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths will be able to complete the task in a flash.

Locksmiths are also able to capability of removing broken or Replace Lost Car Key bent keys which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own can cause more damage, and this task should be left to the professionals.

In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost locksmiths can also offer advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will assist you in avoiding losing your car key once more.