How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.

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

Check the locks on your car.

When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to first check 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 relatively easy in the event that your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for your car key. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to find keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually include an internal chip that connects with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and start the motor. You'll have to visit your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.

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

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

Make sure you check your insurance policy before you purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of a new key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can come in handy if you ever need it. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one near you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (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 and track inventory. It is also 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 car or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in different places such as your vehicle registration, 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 new keys that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and find the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's located where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields as part of a security measure against theft.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle's model, manufacturer, body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of manufacturing.

VINs first appeared in 1954. 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 get new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that will replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also get 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 contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. Today, it's a lot more complicated than it used to be. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always your most ideal option.

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

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before you call someone to replace lost car key your 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 dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. This isn't a assurance, however. It's dependent on the make and model of your vehicle as well as whether or not the keys have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and inquire for a service manager if you aren't sure if they can assist.

If your smart key has been lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security features require a specific kind of key to be reset and function correctly.

The process is now more involved than it was in the past, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional price to have this feature restored. If your original key is stolen or damaged, a dealership can provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure to carry all the required information on hand and a photo ID. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.

Call for a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year, make and model of your vehicle as well as proof that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will suffice).

Before you call a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you've checked all possible places where your keys could be. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you may have used. You may also search for your keys in places that you wouldn't normally place them, such as on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to call for help.

For traditional keys, a locksmith is likely to be able replace keys in a matter of $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 program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require that you provide the car's VIN number however professional locksmiths will have the tools to complete this right on the spot for you.

Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself could cause more damage.

In addition to helping you replace your keys that were lost in your car, a locksmith can provide advice on How to Replace lost car key to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will aid you in never losing your car key again.