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, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of they require a locksmith or dealer.

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 put them especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start with 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 the car key. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. These devices typically contain an internal chip that connects with the car to allow you into the vehicle and then start the motor. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to have a new one created.

Some older vehicles still have keys made of metal that fit inside 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 can provide evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement at the dealership, however this will be much more expensive. The dealership must integrate a computer chip into your car, which can be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car.

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 new key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This could help should you ever require it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages and you are likely to find services near you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle or jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents such as your vehicle registration and title as well as insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. This way, should you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to utilize it to have an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for i ve lost my car keys your particular model that will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's situated at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even written on your windows or windshields as part of an security measure against theft.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacture.

VINs first appeared in 1954. However, until 1981 they were available in different configurations. In 1981, 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 automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For example, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that will start your vehicle. In other cases, you can purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could simply contact your local dealer to get new keys made. Today, it's more complicated than that. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.

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

Before you contact anyone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because you will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be printed in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This is not a assurance however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.

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

The process is now more complicated than it was in the past, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to have this feature restored. If your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route ensure you have all of the information needed including a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call an expert locksmith

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

Before calling a locksmith on the phone, though, make sure that you'I ve Lost My car keys checked all possible places where your keys might be. Examine the pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you may have used. You can also look for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, like on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call for help.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot at a cost of around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car, but professional locksmiths should have the right tools to do this on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this task should be left to professionals.

A locksmith can help replace keys that are lost in your car and provide advice on how to avoid the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car keys once more.