How to Replace Lost Car Keys

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

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many methods to replace lost car keys but the majority require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check Your Car's Locks

When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're busy or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is relatively easy when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your vehicle for the car key. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the 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 in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll have to visit your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith may be able to create keys for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer the replacement however it will cost more. The dealer must pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. It could cost between $200 and $250, depending on the model and make.

Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage that will aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you will be able to locate an option near you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

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

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you can utilize it to have an alternative key quickly and quickly. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is typically located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side in the area where the windshield meets 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 as well as other commercial vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of an security measure to prevent theft.

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

VINs were first introduced in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. In 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 locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also get basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could contact your local dealer to have new keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership.

Before you call someone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is found on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be found in the owner's guide.

Dealerships can replace keys for a majority of car key lost what To do manufacturers. It is not a 100% warranty however. It all depends on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to be reset and function correctly.

This process is much more involved than it was in the past and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra cost to have this feature restored. A dealer can also give you an alternative key that is similar to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route, make sure to carry all the required information along with you, as well as an ID photo. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Contact for a locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car key lost. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith's number however, ensure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys could be. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, such as on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still not able to locate your keys, it's time to contact someone.

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

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced models of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths should be able to do it in a flash.

Many locksmiths are also able to remove bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and give tips on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.