How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweats Grab a pizza and binge your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

Be aware of your options before you panic. There are many ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of they require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where we put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver’s seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forth. Make sure you check compartments with zippers and small spaces for the keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag carefully for keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. These devices usually have an internal chip that connects to the car in order to allow you access to the vehicle and start the motor. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of keys, it's likely 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.

The dealer can also provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Before you purchase a car key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Moreover, it's also worth asking your car insurance provider if you have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you will be able to locate a service close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (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 as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get new keys made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model which can then be used with your lock.

The VIN is usually found on a label on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle to serve as a prevention measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle's manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacture.

VINs first came into use in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different 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 automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if you car requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that can swap your key for one that can start your vehicle. Otherwise, you can simply purchase standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago the loss of your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could just call your local dealership to get new keys made. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best option for replacing the keys to your car that you lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They can to get you back on your quicker and motor at a lower cost than the dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost keys. This is important as someone will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard, or it may be printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able to help you. It depends on the make and model of your car, as well as whether or not the keys have complicated programming. If you're not sure 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 lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security features require a particular type of key to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complicated than it used to be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price 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 the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you opt to do this ensure that you have all of the required information, including an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Contact a locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before calling a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys might be. Check the pockets of the pants, jackets and purses. Also check any other bags that you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still struggling to locate your keys, it's time for you to contact someone.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance transport you car to a dealership to buy a new key.

In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program keys for more advanced types of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number for your car, however a locksmith is likely to be able do it immediately.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also give advice on how to replace car keys when lost to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards making sure you never lose your car keys again.