How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired and ready to put on your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. You realize that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, know your options. There are several ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of them require a locksmith or a dealership.
Check the Locks on Your Car
If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or in a rush. Finding lost car keys can be fairly easy when your car is thoroughly searched.
Begin by sitting in the driver's seat. Examine every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats upwards and downwards, back and forward. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.
A lot of modern cars come with key fobs that let you 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 in order to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to obtain a new key fob if you've lost it.
Some older vehicles still use traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that a locksmith will be in a position to make a replacement key for you, as long as you can provide proof of ownership such as your registration or title.
The dealer can also provide an alternative however, it will cost more. The dealership will need to integrate a computer chip into your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your car.
Make sure to verify your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. You could be able to claim your comprehensive insurance policy to pay for the cost of purchasing a new car key. Moreover, it's also worthwhile to ask your insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages and you will be able to locate a service close to 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 as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, as well as more. In the United States, the VIN is usually engraved into the form of a plate or label on the dashboard of your car, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, like your registration for your vehicle, title and insurance documents.
It is essential to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your vehicle. If replace lost car key lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or in front the engine block of commercial and larger vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windshield or windows of your vehicle as a prevention measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth look at your vehicle including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and the year of manufacturing.
VINs were first used in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety of configurations. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized VINs to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN number is correct, you can get new keys from most dealerships or locksmiths for automotive based on the type key your vehicle requires. For example, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer who will replace your key with one that will be able to start your car. You can also find regular keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could just contact your local dealer to have a new set of keys made. It's a lot more difficult today. The dealership may not be the best place to go in case you want to replace your lost car keys.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They can get you back on your faster and for less than the dealership.
Note down the vehicle identification (VIN) number before calling someone to replace your lost keys. This is important because it will be required in order for someone to create a replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the dashboard of your car or it could be printed in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, it's not a assurance that they'll be able to help you. It's dependent on the make and model of your car and whether or not the keys have complicated programming. Bring your car to the dealership and inquire for an expert in service if you aren't sure if they can help.
If your smart key has been stolen or lost the key will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is much more involved than it was in the past so make sure you're willing to pay the extra price to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged A dealership could offer you a similar backup. If you decide to go this route, make sure to have all the required information with you, as well as an ID photo. This will make it easier for everyone to go through the process.
Contact a locksmith
Contacting a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost car keys. An experienced locksmith will be able to cut and program a new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, they'll need to know the year model, make and model of your vehicle, as well as evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title should do it).
Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys before you contact a locksmith. Examine the pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you may have used. You can also look for your keys in places that you would not normally put them, like on the floor behind a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are unable to find your keys, it's time for you to call someone.
For keys that are traditional locksmiths should be able to replace them on the spot for around $20. This is cheaper than the cost for roadside assistance to tow your car to a dealership and purchase a new key.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program a new key for more advanced types 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 a locksmith should be able to cut and program the key immediately.
Many locksmiths can also remove bent or broken keys that are usually the result of accidentally locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself could cause more damage.
In addition to helping you replace your lost car keys, a locksmith can provide advice on how to avoid keys from being lost or stolen. Making preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can help in making sure you never lose your car keys ever again.