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How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are many ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however, the majority of they require a locksmith or dealership.

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 if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and back and forth. Be sure to look around small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.

A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from the distance. Most of the time, these devices come with an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow 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 keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you, as provided you have proof of ownership such as your registration or title.

The dealer can also provide a replacement however, it will cost more. The dealer will have to pair up the computer chip with your vehicle. This could cost between $200 and $250 depending on your car's make and model.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You may be able claim your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying an additional car key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can be useful if you ever need it. There are many companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able to locate one close to you.

Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle 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 usually engraved into an image or a plate on the dashboard of your vehicle or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for 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 get a new one made using the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a security measure.

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

VINs were first used in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety of configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to purchase new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to go to an authorized locksmith or dealer who can swap your key for one that will be able to start your car. You can also purchase basic keys at hardware stores.





Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could contact your local dealer to have new keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. If you're looking to have your car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the best option.

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 get you back on the quicker and at a lower cost than a dealership.

Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your keys. This is vital as it will be needed in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is on the dashboard of your vehicle or could be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a guarantee, however. It depends on the make and model of your car and whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your car into the store and speak with the service manager.

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

This process is more complex than it used to, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. If your original key is lost or damaged, a dealership can provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to take this route, be sure you have all the required information with you along with a photo ID. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. car lost key can cut and program a 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 evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will do it).

Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants, purses and any other bags you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places that you might not normally go, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all this and are still not able to locate your keys, then it's time to call someone.

For traditional keys, a locksmith should be able to replace them on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than what you would pay to have roadside assistance tow your car to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.

In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program the new key for more advanced models of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number of your car, however locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task in a flash.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.

In addition to helping you replace lost car keys, a locksmith can offer advice on how to prevent future keys from getting misplaced 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.