How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your favorite TV show. But, you realize that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several ways to replace car keys that have been lost but the majority require the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check Your Car's Locks

If you'i ve lost my car keys lost your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're busy or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be fairly simple when your car is thoroughly searched.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and forward. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to find the keys. Also, be sure to check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for keys.

A lot of modern cars i have lost my car keys key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. These devices usually include an internal chip that connects to the car in order to allow you into the vehicle and to start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to create a replacement key for you if you've got evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

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

Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive, you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Additionally, it's important to inquire with your car 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 now many companies offering roadside assistance and you should be able to find a service close to you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into a label or plate on the dashboard of your vehicle and driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other documents such as your vehicle registration, title, and insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get a new key that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth report on your vehicle including the manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacturing.

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

If your VIN is correct, then you will be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

Not long ago, losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing your car keys that have been lost.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They can get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you contact someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because it will be needed to create a replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be included in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This is not a warranty however. It's dependent on the model and make of your car and whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership in order to i have lost my car keys it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific type of key in order to be reset and function properly.

This process is more complex than it was previously, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, make sure to carry all the necessary information with you, as well as an identification photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.

Call a Locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact a locksmith. A reputable locksmith will be able to cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. But, they'll require the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will do it).

Before you call a locksmith's number however, ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys may be. Check pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor behind the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, you should call for help.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to a dealer and purchase a replacement key.

Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require you to provide the VIN number for your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to do it on the spot.

Many locksmiths can also take out broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. Trying to remove a broken key by yourself could cause more damage, so this task should be left to the experts.

In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can also give you advice about how to stop future keys from being lost keys to car or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.