How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You find that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Before you panic, know your options. There are a variety of ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of them require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

It's best to inspect your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly when we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly simple in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Also, feel around small compartments or zippered areas to locate the keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse, or tote bag for the keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get a new one made.

Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit into 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 provided you have proof 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 can cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Before you make a payment for a car key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Additionally, it's worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can help you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able locate one close to you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your car, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes on 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's important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the driver's side door Lost Key replacement jamb, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even written on your windows or windshields as part of an anti-theft measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with a complete report on your vehicle, including 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, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were offered 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 purchase new keys from a variety of locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best place to go for replacing the keys to your car that you lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an auto lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

Before calling anyone to replace your car keys, write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because it will be required to create a replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard or included in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace cars keys for most manufacturers. It is not a 100% assurance, however. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for a service manager if you are unsure if they can assist.

If your smart key was stolen or Lost key Replacement, 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 be reset and function properly.

This process is more complex than it was in the past, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. A dealership can also give you another key that's identical to the original one in the event that the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route ensure that you i have lost my car keys all the information needed, including an ID photo. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Call a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Make sure you check every possible location for your keys before you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths will be able to repair them on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but an experienced locksmith will have the tools to do this right on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also take out bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost the car key in your car and offer guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will aid you in never losing your car keys once more.