Everything You Need To Know About Replace Lost Car Keys

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You're exhausted, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.

Before you panic, consider your options. There are a variety of ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealer.

Check your car's locks

If you've lost your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often don't know where they are, particularly if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

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 forward. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for the 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. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.

Certain older cars still have keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able to make an alternative key for you, if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

You can also purchase an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up the computer chip with your car. This can cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.

Before you pay for a car key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a replacement key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will help if you ever need it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages, so you are likely to find services near you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

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

It's important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get new keys that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code specific to your lock that will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's located where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the driver's side door jamb or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks and other 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 an in-depth analysis of your vehicle including the manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility, and year of manufacturing.

VINs first came into use in 1954, but until 1981, they were offered in a variety. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that will start your vehicle. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past, losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could simply contact your local dealer to get new keys made. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your most ideal option.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an automotive lock. They can get you back on the way faster and charge 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 needed in order for How to replace Lost car key someone to create a replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side or found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll be able assist you. It is dependent on your model and make, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their 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 your smart key has been lost key to car no spare or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a certain type of key in order to be reset and function properly.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. Dealers 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 opt to do this ensure that you have all the necessary information including an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call for a locksmith

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

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas where you don't usually put them, like on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried 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 a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number of your vehicle, but locksmiths should be able to complete the task on the spot.

Many locksmiths can also take out 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 damaged key to professionals. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.

A locksmith can help replace lost car keys and also offer guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will assist you in avoiding losing your car keys again.