How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and are ready to change into your favorite sweatshirt take a bite of pizza and watch your favorite TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are many ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.
Check your car's locks
When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often don't know where they are, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy when you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.
Start with the driver’s seat. Examine every inch of the car by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and back and forth. Also, look around zippered areas or small compartments to locate the keys. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from the distance. These devices usually contain an internal chip that can communicate with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and to start the motor. You'll have to visit your dealer to get the new key fob in case you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths will be capable of creating a new key for you, as long as you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
You can also purchase an entirely new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer will have to connect a computer chip for your car. This could cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.
Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a replacement key. It's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance and you will be able to locate an option near you.
Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into a label or plate on your car's dashboard and driver's side door jamb, 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.
It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys you can quickly and easily get a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb of the driver or in front the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. Some VINs are permanently etched into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft prevention measure.
You can check your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, which includes the manufacturer, make and model body style, engine size assembly plant, and the year of its production.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but up to 1981, they were available in a variety. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip you will require a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. In other cases, you can purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership may not be the best option for replacing your lost car keys.
While you can certainly still get a traditional key at the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is crucial because you will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car or could be found in the owner's guide.
Dealerships can replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. However, this isn't a assurance that they'll be able help you. It is all dependent on the model and make, and if the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your car to the dealership and ask for an expert in service if you are unsure if they can help.
If car keys lost replacement have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to go to your dealership to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a certain type of key in order to reset and function properly.
This process is 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. A dealer can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original one in the event that the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this route ensure you have all of the required information, including an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Call a locksmith
The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to call a locksmith. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you are waiting. They will need the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys before you call a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as 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 under a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to seek help.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith will be able to repair them on the spot for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.
Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to complete the task in a flash.
Many locksmiths can also take out keys that are bent or broken, which are often caused by accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.
In addition to helping you replace keys to your car that have been lost, a locksmith can give you advice about how to stop future keys from getting misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car key again.
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