How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You discover that your car keys are missing.

Be aware of your options before you get in a panic. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost however the majority of they require a locksmith or dealer.

Check the locks on your car.

When you lose car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they're especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car isn't difficult if you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start with the driver’s seat. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate the keys. 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 key lost what to do from an extended distance. They usually have an internal chip that connects to the car to let you into the vehicle and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to get an alternative key fob if you'i ve lost my car keys what can i do lost car key how to replace it.

Certain older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith might be able create keys for you if you've got proof of ownership like your registration or title.

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

Before you make a payment for an auto key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This can be useful if you ever need it. There are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able locate one close to you.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 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 more. In the United States the VIN is typically stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle and it's a good idea to keep it in a safe place. That way, if you lose your keys, you can utilize it to have an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock that will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's situated 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 side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of a security measure to prevent theft.

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

VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, until 1981 they were available in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if you car requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a dealer or locksmith that can replace your key with one that can start your vehicle. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

In the past the loss of your car keys was not a huge deal. You could just contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership may not be the best place to go for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to call an automotive lock. They will be able get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact 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 car. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or it could be printed in your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. It is not a 100% guarantee however. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle and whether keys are equipped with complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and inquire for a service manager if you are unsure if they can help.

If your smart key was stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a certain type of key in order to function correctly and reset.

This process is more complicated than it used to, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route, be sure you have all the information needed with you, as well as an identification photo. This will help everyone to go through the process.

Call a locksmith

The most important step to take when replacing lost car keys is to call locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. But, they'll require the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will suffice).

Before you get a locksmith's number However, you must ensure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys may be. Check the pockets of jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you might not normally go for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of these methods and still are unable to find your keys, it's time to contact someone.

For keys that are traditional, a locksmith is likely to be able replace them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay for roadside assistance to tow your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program keys for more sophisticated cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number of your car, but a locksmith should be able to do it immediately.

Many locksmiths can also remove keys that are bent or broken, which are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own could cause more damage, so this task should be left to the experts.

A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost my car key or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.