How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are several ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealer.
Check Your Car's Locks
When you lose keys to your car, it's recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where we put them, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately the search for lost car keys is relatively easy if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Check every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and back and forth. Also, check the zippered areas or small compartments to locate keys. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.
Many modern vehicles come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. 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 keys fob, you'll need to visit a dealership to have an alternative one created.
Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you have lost one of these keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be capable of creating a new key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You can also get a new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer will have to connect the computer chip with your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.
Before you pay for an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You might be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. Additionally, it's worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance coverage to assist you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages and you will be able to locate services close to you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and track inventory. It can also be used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. You can also find your VIN in other places, including the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.
It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your car. In the event that you lose your keys, you'll be able to use it to get the replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer for your particular model which can then be used with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some instances, the VIN is even written on your windows or windshields as part of a anti-theft measure.
You can check your VIN by entering it into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth look at your vehicle including the manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of production.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were available 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 will be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who can replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Today, it's a lot more complex than that. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They will be able get you back on the way faster and charge less than the dealership.
Before you call anyone to replace your car keys, note down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is vital as it will be required in order for someone to create a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard, or it may be included in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% guarantee, however. It's contingent on the make and model of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request an expert in service if you are unsure if they can help.
If your smart key has been lost or stolen the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complicated than it used to be so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to have this feature restored. Dealers can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you opt to do this ensure that you have all the information needed, including an ID photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.
Call a locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to call locksmith. A skilled locksmith will be able cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Make sure to look over 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 might have used. You could also search for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, like on the floor behind a doorway table or under the couch. If you have done 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 around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.
Locksmiths are often able to program and cut new keys for cars with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number for your vehicle, but a locksmith should be able to cut and program the key immediately.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or broken, which are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, and this task should be left to experts.
A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can aid you in never losing your car keys ever again.
