How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys aren't to be found.

Before you panic, know 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 dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where we put them particularly when we're rushing or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats back and forwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for your car keys. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car keys lost replacement from the distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have an alternative one created.

Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be able to create a new key for you as provided you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

You can also purchase an upgrade from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealership must connect a computer chip to your car, 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 the new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. It's also important to inquire with your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are many companies offering roadside assistance, so you are likely to find an option near you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for every vehicle that is 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 stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.

It's important to keep your VIN safe because 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 find 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 that's situated at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even written into your windows or windshields as part of a anti-theft measure.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you an entire report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size, assembly plant and the year of its production.

VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs 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. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can swap your key for one that can start your vehicle. In other cases, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option in case you want to replace lost car key cost your car keys that have been lost.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to call an automotive lock. They are more likely to be able to get you back on the road in a hurry and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

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

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. This isn't a guarantee however. It is all dependent on the model and make, as well as whether the keys are intelligent or are complex in their programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and inquire for a service manager if you are unsure if they can assist.

If your smart key was stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.

The process is more complicated than it was previously be, so you should be prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with a backup key that's similar to the one you i have lost my car keys in case your i lost the keys to my car one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to do this ensure you have all of the information needed including an identification photo. This will help all to complete the process.

Contact for a locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step to replace lost car keys. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. But, they'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Make sure to look over every possible location for your keys before you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should call for help.

A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot at a cost of around $20. This is cheaper than the cost to have roadside assistance tow your vehicle to the dealership and buy a replacement key.

Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car key lost what to do, but a professional locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths are also able to 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 by yourself could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to professionals.

A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also give guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car keys once more.