How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Know your options before you panic. There are many ways to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately finding keys to your car isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for lost key in Car your car key. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag with care for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to get an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able create a replacement key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your car, which can cost $200-$250 or more depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy, you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a new key. Additionally, it's worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance and you should be able to find a service near you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver's side at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver or on the side of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows to provide an anti-theft measure.

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

VINs first came into use in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different configurations. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who will replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership might not be the best place to go in case you want to replace your lost car key replacement near me car keys.

While you may purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can to get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Before you call anyone to replace your lost car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial because you will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard or printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. This is not a guarantee, however. It's contingent on the model and make of your car and whether keys have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and ask for an expert in service if you are unsure whether they can help.

If your smart key was stolen or lost key in car, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security features require a particular type of key to reset and function properly.

This process is more complex than it was in the past be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is stolen or damaged, a dealership can offer you a similar backup. If you decide to take this route, make sure to have all the information needed along with you, as well as an ID photo. This will help all to complete the process.

Contact a locksmith

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

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor under the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace them in a matter of $20. This is less than the price you'd pay for roadside assistance to tow your car to a dealership and purchase a new key.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require you to provide the VIN number of your vehicle, but locksmiths is likely to be able cut and program the key in a flash.

The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove broken keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could result in further damage.

In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys, a locksmith can also give you advice about how to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.