How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab some pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you discover that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

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

Check Your Car's Locks

If you've lost key to car no spare your keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. After all, we often forget where we put them, especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for the car key. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to find the keys. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

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

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

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

Before you make a payment for the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Additionally, it's worth asking 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 will be able to locate services near you.

Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even behind the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, including your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly get a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer for your specific model, which will then work with your lock.

The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a sticker that's situated between the windshield and 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 etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility and year of manufacturing.

VINs were first introduced in 1954, however, until 1981, they were offered in a variety of formats. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.

You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They are more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road fast and likely to charge less than the dealership would.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace your lost car keys near me keys. This is important because you will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able help you. It's contingent on the model and make of your car, as well as whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car into the store and speak with the service manager.

If your smart key was stolen or lost car key, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because your car's security features require a particular type of key to reset and work properly.

This process is more complicated 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 car keys price one gets damaged or stolen. If you decide to do this, make sure you have all the required information including a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to get through the process.

Call a locksmith

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

Before calling a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've checked every possible spot where your keys may be. Check the pockets of pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you might have used. You may also search for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are struggling to locate your keys, it's time to contact 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 with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require you to provide the VIN number of the car, but an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.

Many locksmiths can also remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually caused by locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can offer advice on how to stop future keys from being lost key replacement car or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home can assist you in avoiding losing your car key once more.