How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. However, you realize the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Know your options before you panic. There are lost key what to do to replace a lost car key however the majority of these require a locksmith or a dealership.
Check your car's locks
If you lose your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. In the end, we tend to forget where they're particularly when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is fairly easy when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver’s seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forth. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to locate keys. You should also carefully check your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually include an internal chip that can communicate with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and then start the engine. If you've lost your car's key fob, you'll need visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older vehicles still have traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.
You can also purchase a new replacement at the dealership, however it will be more expensive. The dealer will need to connect an electronic chip to your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 depending on the model and make.
Before you make a payment for a car key replacement, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you might be able to claim it to pay for the cost of a new key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance provider if you have roadside assistance insurance that can assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance plans which means you should be able to find an option close to you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The number for identification of the vehicle is a unique 17-digit alpha-numeric code for each vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and much more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your vehicle and jambs on the door of the driver's side, and sometimes in front of the engine block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your car. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new one that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your particular model which can then be used with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's placed at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for 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. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows to provide an security measure against theft.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer body type, engine size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacturing.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981 they were available in various configurations. In that year 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 get new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll require a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. In other cases, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.
Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, make a note of the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because it will be required to create a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.
Dealerships are able to replace keys for a majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a assurance however. It is dependent on your make and model, and if the keys are smart or have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealer and request a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your vehicle require a specific kind of key in order to be reset and function properly.
This process is much more complicated than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. Dealers can also provide you with an alternative key that is similar to the original one in the event that your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you decide to take this route, be sure to carry all the information needed along with you and a photo ID. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Call an expert locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. A locksmith with experience will be able to program and cut a new car key while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you have checked every possible place where your keys could be. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants or purses, as well as any other bags you've used. You may also search for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, such as on the floor under the table in the entryway or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to seek help.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for around $20. This is less than what you would pay to have roadside assistance take your vehicle to the dealer and purchase a replacement key.
In many instances, locksmiths can also cut and program keys for more sophisticated automobiles, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the car's VIN number however an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. Doing it yourself could result in further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace lost car keys and also offer advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. Preventive measures, such as keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in ensuring that you never lose your car keys again.