how to replace a lost car key to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Know your options before you get in a panic. There are many ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost, but the majority of they require a locksmith or dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you lose your car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately finding keys to your car is relatively easy when you take the time to do a thorough search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to locate the keys. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car remotely. Most of the time, these devices come with 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 key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Some older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith might be able to make an alternative key for you, if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on the make and model.

Before you pay for the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This could be useful in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance plans and you should be able to find services close to you.

Check 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, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car and it's a good idea to keep it safe. In the event that you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to use it to get the replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981 they were available in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could simply call your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing the keys to your car that you lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to call an automotive lock. They're more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership.

Before you call anyone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because it will be needed in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard or found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a warranty, however. It is dependent on your make and model, and whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is damaged or stolen A dealership could provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this way, make sure you have all the necessary information including a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call for a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. However, they will need to know the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Be sure to check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags that you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you might not normally go, such as the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to seek help.

For traditional keys locksmiths will be able to repair keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance transport your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new one.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more advanced models of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of your car however, a professional locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash 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 could result in further damage.

A locksmith can help replace keys that are lost in your car and give guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or vehicle stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will assist you in avoiding losing your car keys again.