How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to watch your favorite TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.
Be aware of your options before you be in a panic. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of they require a locksmith or a dealership.
Check the locks on your car.
It's best to check your car first if you lose your keys. We often don't know where they are, particularly if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding lost car keys can be relatively easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start with the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, as well as back and back and forth. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. Usually, these devices 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 key fob, you'll have to visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's possible that locksmiths will be able to create a new key for you, as long as you can provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also get an upgrade from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250, dependent on the car's make and model.
Before you purchase the replacement of your car key make sure you check your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage, you may be able to claim it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage to help you in the event of an emergency. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance programs. You should be able locate one close to you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, including the registration of your vehicle, title and insurance documents.
It's 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 obtain a new key that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock that will then work with your lock.
The VIN is typically located on a label on the dashboard of the driver's side in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the door jamb for the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle to serve as a prevention measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with a complete report on your vehicle, including the manufacturer, make and model the body style, the engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.
VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to lost key for car were available in various configurations. In the year 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of key your vehicle requires. For example, if your car requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit an auto locksmith or dealer that will replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago the loss of your car keys wasn't an issue. You could just contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace your car keys that have been lost.
Although you could purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best option is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely be capable of getting you back on the road in a hurry and will probably charge less than the dealership would.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is important as the person who needs it will create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be found in your owner's manual.
Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. This isn't a warranty however. It's dependent on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as whether keys have complex programming. If you're not sure whether not your dealership can help you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat 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 have it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was in the past be, so you should be prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. If your original key is stolen or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with an identical backup. If you choose to go this route, make sure to have all the information needed with you and an ID photo. This will help all to complete the process.
Call a Locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to call locksmith. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. But, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).
Be sure to check every possible location for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Check the pockets of pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places that you would not normally look like the floor behind the doorway table 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 will be able to repair keys on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than the price you'd pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to the dealership and purchase a new key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced models of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. These more complex keys might require you to provide the VIN number of the car however, an experienced locksmith has the right tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove broken or bent keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also provide guidance on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will assist you in avoiding losing your car keys once more.
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