How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Know your options before you be in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. After all, we often forget where we put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car isn't difficult when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, back and forth. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from a distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost key fob your car key fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get a new one made.

Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be able to create a new key for you as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also get an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's make and model.

Make sure you check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. You may be able claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Check with your insurance provider whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will come in handy should you ever require it. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you will be able to locate services near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, and sometimes on the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get new keys that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label that is placed on the driver's-side dashboard, where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer body type, engine size, assembly facility, and year of manufacturing.

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

If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from most dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing lost keys to a car the keys to your car keys lost replacement that you lost.

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

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your keys. This is crucial because it will be required in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be found in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll help you. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and inquire for an expert in service if you are unsure whether they can help.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost car keys near me or stolen, you'll have to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to reset and work properly.

This process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher price to restore this feature. A dealer will also be able to provide you with another key that's identical to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you choose to do this ensure that you have all of the required information, including an identification photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. A locksmith with expertise will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. However, they will require the year model, make and model of your vehicle as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).

Make sure you check 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 might have used. You may also look for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to call someone.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is less than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.

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

Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys lost for car that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also give guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will aid you in never losing your car keys ever again.