How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab some pizza to watch your latest TV show. You discover that your car keys are missing.

Before you panic, know your options. There are many ways to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check Your Car's Locks

If you lose your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, Near by especially when we're busy or distracted. Finding keys lost car keys price in the car can be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and back as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for the car key. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to find keys. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain an alternative key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's possible 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 it will be more expensive. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your car, which can cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Make sure you check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This can be useful in the event that you need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you should be able to find services close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

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

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's best to keep it safe. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it 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 windshield or windows of your vehicle as a prevention measure.

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

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

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to get new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that will replace your key with one that can start your car. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago losing your car keys was not an issue. 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 option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.

While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key lost from the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able get you back on the 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 someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard or found in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% assurance however. It is dependent on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.

If your smart key was lost or stolen it must be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key in order to reset and function properly.

This process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. If your original key is stolen or damaged, a dealership can offer you a similar backup. If you choose to go this route ensure you have all the information needed including an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

A locksmith's call 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 wait. However, they will require the year and make of your car along with proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like on the floor under the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are struggling to locate your keys, then it's time to contact someone.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace keys on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of your car however an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.

Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.

A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also provide advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.