How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt Grab a pizza and watch the latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.

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

Check your car's locks

It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where we put them, especially when we're rushing or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Be sure to feel around compartments with zippers and small spaces for keys, too. Also, be sure to check your purse, backpack, or tote bag, for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from the 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 your car's key fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith may be able to make keys for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

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

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This will be useful should you ever require it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance plans. You should be able to find one near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other documents like your registration for your vehicle and title as well as insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new one made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label located at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or in front the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was made.

VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were offered in a variety of configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from a variety of dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that can start your car. You can also find basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car key lost no spare keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily contact your local dealer and request a new set. Today, it's more complicated than that. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it's best to contact an auto lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road quickly and likely to charge less than the dealership.

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

Dealerships are able to replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This is not a warranty however. It's contingent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not the keys 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 you have a smart key that's been lost key car or stolen, you'll have to go to your dealership for it to be replaced. This is because your car keys lost's security functions require a specific type of key to be reset and function correctly.

This process is much more involved than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. Dealers will also be able to provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original in case your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route ensure that you have all of the information needed, including a photo ID. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.

Contact a locksmith

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

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places you wouldn't normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should call for help.

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

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number for your car, however locksmiths will be able to cut and program the key on the spot.

The majority of locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own can cause more damage, so this should be left to experts.

In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost car keys replacement near me in your car locksmiths can also give you advice about how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.