How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab some pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you discover that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check the Locks on Your Car

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Also, look around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse, or tote bag for keys.

A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually contain an internal chip that communicates to the car keys lost to allow you into the vehicle and then start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

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

You can also purchase an upgrade from the dealership, but it will be more expensive. The dealership must connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can come in handy should you ever require it. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find a service close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for each vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your vehicle registration, replace lost car key title, and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get new keys that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label that is placed on the dashboard of the driver, where the windshield meets it. You can also locate it on the door jamb of the driver or in front the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of an security measure against theft.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth look at your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its production.

VINs first came into use in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were offered in various 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 purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to call an automotive lock. They are more likely to be able to get you back on the road quickly and will probably charge less than the dealership.

Before calling anyone to replace Lost Car Key your lost car keys replacement cost car keys, write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be found in the owner's guide.

Dealerships are able replace cars keys for most manufacturers. It is not a 100% guarantee however. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

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

This process is more involved than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the additional price to restore this feature. If your original key is lost or damaged A dealership could provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to take this route, be sure you have all the necessary information along with you along with an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call a Locksmith

The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to contact locksmith. An experienced locksmith can cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith over the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor under the doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should call for help.

For keys that are traditional locksmiths is likely to be able replace them on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance take your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced models of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number for your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to complete the task in a flash.

Many locksmiths can also take out bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can also offer advice on how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could assist you in avoiding losing your car keys once more.