How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt Grab a pizza and watch your favorite TV show. You realize that your car keys have disappeared.

Know your options before you panic. There are several ways to replace a lost keys for car car key however, the majority of these require a locksmith or dealer.

Check Your Car's Locks

It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys to your car may be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver’s seat. The seats can be moved forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car key. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to find keys. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal chip that communicates to the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost it.

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

You can also purchase a new replacement from a dealer, but this will be much more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your car, which could cost of replacing lost car Keys $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. It's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. There are a variety of companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able locate one close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits 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 thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle, title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's best to keep it somewhere safe. That way, if you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your particular model that will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver's side in the area where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases it is possible that the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of an anti-theft measure.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.

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

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For example, if your vehicle 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 car. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car, or may be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. This is not a guarantee however. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your car into the store and speak with the service manager.

If your smart key has been lost or stolen, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complicated than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to have this feature restored. A dealer will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route ensure that you have all the required information including an ID photo. This will help all to complete the process.

Call for a locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. An experienced locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, they'll require the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Before you get a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you've inspected every possible spot where your keys might be. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you've used. You can also search for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've done this and still cannot find your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require you to provide the car's VIN number however, an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also take out broken or bent keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside 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.

In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can offer advice on how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can help in ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.