How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, keys lost you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly easy when your car is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Be sure to feel around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.

Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be in a position to make a replacement key for you as provided you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up an electronic chip to your car. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on the model and make.

Before you pay for a car key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Ask your insurance company whether they have roadside service coverage. This can come in handy if you ever need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find an option near you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard and the driver's side door jamb and sometimes in front of the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration title, insurance and title documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car It's a good idea to keep it safe. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you can use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock that will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with the complete information about your vehicle, including manufacturer, model and make the body style, the engine size assembly plant, and the year it was made.

VINs were first used in 1954, but until 1981, they were offered in a variety. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to get 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 need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer that will replace your key with one that can start your vehicle. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complex than that. The dealership may 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 are more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership would.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is vital as it will be required in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car, or may be printed in the owner's guide.

Dealerships are able replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It is all dependent on the make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for the service manager if are unsure whether they can assist.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to go to your dealership for it to be replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to reset and work properly.

The process is more complicated than it used to be, so you should be willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. If your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to offer you a similar backup. If you opt to do this ensure that you have all of the information needed, including a photo ID. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before you call a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you've checked all possible places where your keys could be. Check the pockets of pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags that you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you have done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is less than what you would pay for roadside assistance to tow your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the car's VIN number, but professional locksmiths will have the tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can offer advice on how to prevent future keys from being i lost my car keys what do i do or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car keys once more.