How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch your favorite TV show. However, remote you discover that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. 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 if you lose your keys. After all, we often forget where they're particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car key with no spare car keys is fairly easy when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. These devices typically have an internal chip that connects to the car to let you into the vehicle and to start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain the new key fob in case you've lost it.

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

You can also get an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, remote which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the model and make of your vehicle.

Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You may be able claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This can come in handy should you ever require it. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one in your area.

Check your vehicle's identification number (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 and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration title, insurance and title documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's recommended to store it in a safe place. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you'll be able to utilize it to have the replacement key made quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label that's placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver or on the side of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even embedded into your windshield or windows as part of a security measure against theft.

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

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

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships and remote locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

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

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because it will be required in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard or included in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able to assist you. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for an expert in service if you are unsure whether they can help.

If you have a smart key that's lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because your car's security features require a specific kind of key to reset and work properly.

The process is more complicated than it was previously be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost key for car or damaged, a dealership can provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to go this route, be sure to carry all the required information along with you, as well as an identification photo. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Contact for a locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing lost car keys is to contact an experienced locksmith. A locksmith who has expertise will be able to program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith's number, though, make sure that you have checked every possible spot where your keys might be. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you might have used. You can also search for your keys in places that you might not normally go for them, like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.

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

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, but a locksmith will be able to complete the task on the spot.

Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also provide advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.