15 Things You Didn't Know About Replace Lost Car Keys

How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're exhausted, so you put on your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to binge-watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that the keys to your car aren't to be found.

Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are several methods to replace lost car keys but the majority involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where they are, particularly if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately, finding lost car keys isn't difficult if you take the time to do an exhaustive search in your vehicle.

Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as up and down to search every inch of your car for the car key. Be sure to look around small compartments and zippered areas for keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag with care for keys.

Many modern cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. They usually contain an internal chip that can communicate to the car to let you into the vehicle and start the motor. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll have to visit the dealership to have a new one made.

Some older cars still use traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you if you've got evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.

The dealer is also able to provide the replacement, but it will cost more. The dealership will have to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the make and model of your car.

Before you purchase the replacement of your car key, be sure to consider your insurance policy. If you have comprehensive coverage you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of replacing a key. Ask your insurance company whether they have roadside service coverage. This could be useful if you ever need it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages, so you will be able to locate services near you.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles as well as 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 plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. Your VIN can be found in different places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.

It is essential to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. If you lose your keys, you can easily and quickly get a new key made using the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's key code for your specific model that will then work 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. 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. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of an security measure against theft.

You can check your VIN by entering it into a online 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 production.

VINs first appeared in 1954. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different configurations. In that year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current format of 17 characters.

If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from a variety of locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type key your vehicle requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will have to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys was not an issue. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's a lot more complicated than that. If you're looking to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the best option.

While you can certainly still obtain a traditional key from the dealership, your best bet is to call an auto locksmith. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.

Write down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is important as the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard or printed inside of the owner's manual.

Dealerships can repair keys for the majority of car manufacturers. This isn't a assurance however. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle and whether or not the keys have complex programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a service manager if you are unsure whether they can help.

If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key in order to function correctly and reset.

This process is more complicated than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealership can also provide you with another key that's identical to the original one in the event that your lost one gets damaged or stolen. If you opt to do this ensure that you have all of the information needed, including an ID photo. This will make the process more efficient for everyone involved.

Call for a locksmith

Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost car keys. A skilled locksmith can cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should suffice).

Before you call a locksmith on the phone However, you must ensure that you've inspected all possible places where your keys might be. Check the pockets of the pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags that you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places you would not normally look, such as the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've done this but are still unable to locate your keys, it's time to call for help.

lost key of car  should be able replace traditional keys on the spot, for about $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to buy a new key.

Locksmiths can often program and cut new keys for cars equipped with more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Certain of these keys require the VIN number for 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 lock them accidentally in your car. The attempt to remove a broken key on your own can cause more damage, so this task should be left to the professionals.

In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys locksmiths can also provide advice on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Preventive steps, like keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet, can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.