How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Be aware of your options prior to get in a panic. There are a variety of ways to Replace Lost Key keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealer.

Check your car's locks

If you've lost your car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. After all, replace lost Key we often forget where we've put them especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy if you take the time to do an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag, for keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices usually have an internal chip that can communicate to the car to allow you into the vehicle and to start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need to visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.

Some older vehicles still have keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be in a position to make a replacement key for you as long as you can provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement at the dealership, however this will be much more expensive. 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.

Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. Moreover, it's also worth asking 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 now many companies offering roadside assistance and you should be able to find an option close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's replacing a lost car key good idea to keep it in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get new keys made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label that's located between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a prevention measure.

You can check your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an entire report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year it was manufactured.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were offered in various configurations. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from many locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll require an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. If not, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could contact your local dealer to get a new set of keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

While you may get a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely to be able to get you back on the road quickly and probably cost less than the dealership.

Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important as you will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able to help you. It's contingent on the model and make of your car and whether keys are equipped with complex programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because your car's security features require a particular type of key to reset and function properly.

The process is now more complex than it was in the past and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to have this feature restored. If your original key is stolen or damaged A dealership could offer you a similar backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure you have all the required information, including an identification photo. This will help everyone to get through the process.

Contact a locksmith

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

Before you get a locksmith on the phone however, ensure that you have checked every possible place where your keys might be. This includes checking pockets in pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places where you wouldn't normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are struggling to locate your keys, then it's time for you to call someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the car's VIN number however an experienced locksmith will have the tools to do this on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as 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 again.