How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired and ready to change into your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and binge your latest TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.

Before you panic, know your options. There are many ways to replace car keys that have been lost however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately the search for lost car keys isn't difficult if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for your car key. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to get the new key fob in case you've lost it.

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

The dealer is also able to provide a replacement however it will cost more. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your car, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You may be able claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will help should you ever require it. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance which means you are likely to find a service close to you.

Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

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

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's recommended to store it in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly obtain a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model that will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label that's placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a prevention measure.

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

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

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'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

A few years ago the loss of your car keys was not an issue. You could contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able get you back on your way faster and charge less than a dealership.

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

Dealerships are able to replace car keys for the majority of manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll be able help you. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. If you're unsure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.

If your smart key was lost or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and function correctly.

This process is more complicated than it was in the past and you should make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to have this feature restored. Dealers can also provide you with a backup key that's 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 you have all of the required information including a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call an expert locksmith

A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith with experience will be able program and cut a new car key while you are waiting. But, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys before you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of 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 a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all this and are still not able to locate your keys, it's time to call someone.

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 your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new 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. Some of these more complex keys require you to provide the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths should be able to complete the task immediately.

Many locksmiths can also remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself can cause further damage.

In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can also offer advice on how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Making preventative steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet, can go a long way towards ensuring that you never lose your car keys ever again.
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