How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and binge your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several methods to replace lost car keys however, the majority of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
It's best to inspect your car first if you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple in the event that 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 forth. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.
A lot of modern cars have key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose the keys, a locksmith may be able to make keys for you, if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase an upgrade from the dealership, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will need to pair up a computer chip for your car. This could cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.
Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Moreover, it's also important to inquire with your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance plans which means you are likely to find services near you.
Check 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 and keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is typically stamped into a label or plate on your car's dashboard or the driver's side door jamb and sometimes in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's best to keep it in a safe place. This way, should you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually found on a sticker on the driver's-side dashboard at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also locate it on the door jamb of the driver or on the side of the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields to provide an security measure against theft.
lost key in car can check your VIN by entering it into an online 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 offered in a variety of configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current format of 17 characters.
If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago losing your car keys was not an issue. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. It's more complicated today. The dealership might not be the best place to go for replacing the keys to your car that you lost.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be in a position to get you back on the road quickly and will probably charge less than the dealership would.
Before you contact anyone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is important because you will need it to create the replacement car keys for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your vehicle or it could be printed in the owner's guide.
Dealerships are able to replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll be able to help you. It is dependent on your make and model, and whether the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and ask for an expert in service if you are unsure if they can help.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll have to visit your dealership to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complicated than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional cost to have this feature restored. If your original key is stolen or damaged A dealership could provide you with a duplicate backup. If you decide to take this route, make sure to have all the required information on hand, as well as an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Call a Locksmith
A locksmith's call is the first step to replace keys for your car that have been lost. A reputable locksmith will be able to cut and program a new key for your car while you wait. They will require the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Be sure to check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking the pockets of pants and jackets, purses and any other bags you've used. You may also look for your keys in places that you might not normally go like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If lost key for car 've done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to contact a professional for assistance.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith is likely to be able replace keys in a matter of $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance take you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number for your car, however locksmiths is likely to be able complete the task in a flash.
Many locksmiths can also take out bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. If you attempt to remove a damaged key on your own could cause more damage, so this task should be left to the professionals.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also provide advice on how to avoid future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car keys once more.