How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you discover that your car keys aren't to be found.

Know your options before you be in a panic. There are several ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check your car's locks

It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where they're especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Move the seats back and forwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for your car key. Be sure to look around small compartments and zippered areas for keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your 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's keys fob, you'll have to visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.

Some older cars still have keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible that a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you as long as you can provide 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 must pair a computer chip with your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Before you pay for a car key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance plans which means you will be able to locate a service close to you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle 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 stamped into a label or plate on your car's dashboard or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's best to keep it safe. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for Lost The Keys To My Car your specific model which can then be used with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver's side door jamb, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility, and year of manufacturing.

VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they came in a variety of configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best place to go in case you want to replace your car keys that have been lost.

While you may get a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is important because it will be needed in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your car or it could be printed in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This is not a warranty, however. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If your smart key was Lost The Keys To My Car or stolen the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a certain type of key to function correctly and reset.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all the information needed on hand, as well as an identification photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.

Call for a locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing keys to your car that have been lost car keys with no spare is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. However, they'll need to know the year, make and model of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Before you get a locksmith on the phone however, ensure that you've checked every possible place where your keys could be. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags that you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still struggling to locate your keys, it's time to call someone.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is cheaper than the price you'd pay for roadside assistance to tow your car to a dealership and purchase a new key.

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more sophisticated automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths will be able to cut and program the key immediately.

Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can also provide advice on how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.