How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your sweats and grab some pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You find that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Before you panic, know your options. There are several methods 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

When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where they're especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car isn't difficult when you make the effort to conduct a thorough search of your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Check every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Also, feel around small compartments or zippered areas to find the keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag for 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 to allow you in and start the engine. If you'i ve lost my car keys lost my car keys no spare your car's key fob, you'll need to visit a dealership to have a new one made.

Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to make keys for you if you've got evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide a replacement however, it will cost more. The dealer will have to connect a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's make and model.

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can help you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able locate one close to you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on your car's dashboard and jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes on the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like the registration of your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's recommended to store it safe. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new key made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually found 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 for the driver's side or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields to provide an anti-theft measure.

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

VINs were first introduced in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered in a variety of configurations. In 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 as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past, losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could just call your local dealership to get a new set of keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than it used to be. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your most ideal option.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your keys. This is vital as it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be printed inside of the 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 whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car into the store and speak with the service manager.

If your smart key has been stolen or Lost key to my car it must be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key in order to reset and function properly.

This process is more involved than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with a backup key that's similar to the original in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, be sure to have all the necessary information on hand and an identification photo. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

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

Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys before you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you've used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to seek help.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to purchase a new key.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, such as smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require you to provide the VIN number of the car however an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended what to do if lost car keys leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.

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