How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and order a pizza to watch your latest TV show. You discover that your car keys are missing.

Before you panic, consider your options. There are a few different ways to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check your car's locks

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

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats back and forwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for your car key. Also, feel around small compartments or zippered areas to find keys. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag, for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your 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 car Key with no spare your car's key fob, you'll need visit a dealership to have a new one created.

Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of keys lost, it's likely that a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's make and model.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you might be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages which means you are likely to find a service close to you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle that is 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 typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including your registration for your vehicle, title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new key that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your 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 label on the dashboard of the driver in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was manufactured.

VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety of 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 of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to get a new set. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing your lost car keys.

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

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able replace cars keys for most manufacturers. It is not a 100% warranty, however. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to be reset and function correctly.

The process is more complicated than it was previously, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original one in the event that the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route ensure you have all the required information including an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact for a locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year, make, and lost car Key with No spare model of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

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

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot at a cost of around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase 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. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, however a locksmith is likely to be able cut and program the key in a flash.

Many locksmiths can also remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and give guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can help in ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.