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How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so put on your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You find that your car keys are missing.

Before key car lost panic, consider your options. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them require a dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

If you lose your car keys, it's always best to start by checking your vehicle. We often forget where they are, particularly when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately the search for lost car keys isn't difficult if you take the time to do a thorough search of your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. The seats can be moved forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Also, feel around zippered areas or small compartments to locate the keys. Also, be sure to check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.

A lot of modern cars have key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car from a 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's key fob, you'll need visit a dealership to have a new one created.

Some older vehicles still have traditional keys made of metal that fit in an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's possible that locksmiths are able to create a new key for you, as long as you can provide evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealer must pair up an electronic chip to your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on the make and model.

Before you pay for an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You could be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of purchasing an additional car key. It's also worthwhile to ask your insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. There are key lost car that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able find one in your area.

Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)

The number for identification of the vehicle is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle that is on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as track inventory. It can also be used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your vehicle or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.

It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be able to utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard in the area where the windshield meets it. You can also find it on the driver's side door jamb or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you a complete report on your vehicle, including manufacturer, model and make, body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was manufactured.

VINs first came into use in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. 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 obtain new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your car requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that can start your vehicle. You can also purchase standard keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could just call your local dealership to get 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 the best option.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to call an automotive lock. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.

Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important as the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be printed inside of your owner's manual.

Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this isn't a guarantee that they'll help you. It depends on the make and model of your car, as well as whether keys are equipped with complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request the service manager if are unsure if they can help.

If your smart key has been stolen or lost it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific type of key in order to function correctly and reset.

The process is more complicated than it used to, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you choose to go this route, be sure you have all the required information on hand, as well as an identification photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.

Call a Locksmith





The most important step in replacing lost car keys is to contact a locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able to cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with proof of ownership (a copy of your registration or title).

Before you get a locksmith over the phone however, ensure that you've inspected every possible place where your keys might be. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like on the floor in front of the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.

A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to purchase a new one.

In many cases, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced models of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, and transponder keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number of your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to complete the task immediately.

Locksmiths are also able to capability of removing broken or bent keys, which can occur when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost in your car and offer guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car keys again.