How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to put on your favorite sweats take a bite of pizza and binge your latest TV show. But, you realize that the keys to your car aren't to be found.
Before you panic, know your options. There are a variety of ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of them require a locksmith or dealership.
Check the Locks on Your Car
If you lose your car keys, it's always recommended to first check your vehicle. We often forget where they are, especially when we're busy or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car keys is relatively easy if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and back as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for the car key. Be sure to feel around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Check your purse, backpack or tote bag with care for keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to allow you in and start the engine. You'll need to visit your dealer to get an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you have lost these keys, a locksmith might be able create a replacement key for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
You can also get an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealer will have to pair up a computer chip for your car. It could cost between $200 and $250 depending on the model and make.
Before you pay for a car key replacement make sure you check your insurance policy. You may be able claim your comprehensive insurance to pay for the cost of buying an additional car key. It's also worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can aid you in the case of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance packages. You should be able find one near you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles as well as monitor inventory, report crashes and thefts, and more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb and sometimes even in front of the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle, so it's best to keep it somewhere safe. That way, if you ever lose your keys, you'll be in a position to use it to get a replacement key made quickly and easily. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer for your specific model, which will then work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's placed between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also find it on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched into your windshield or windows as part of a anti-theft measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle including the manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility and the year of its manufacture.
VINs first appeared in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981 they were available in various configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If your VIN number is valid, you can obtain new keys from most locksmiths, automotive or dealerships based on the type of 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. If not, you can buy standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could easily contact your local dealer to get a new set. It's a lot more complicated today. If you're in the market to have your lost car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.
You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They can to get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.
Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important as the person who needs it will create an alternative car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's dashboard, or it may be included in your owner's manual.
lost keys to car can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. It is not a 100% guarantee, however. It's dependent on the model and make of your vehicle, as well as whether keys have complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and request a service manager if you are unsure if they can help.
If your smart key has been stolen or lost, it will need to be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific kind of key in order to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it used to be, so make sure you're prepared to pay a higher cost to restore this feature. In the event that your original key is lost or damaged the dealership will be able to offer you a similar backup. If you opt to do this ensure that you have all the required information, including an identification photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Call an expert locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. An experienced locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Examine the pockets on the pants, jackets and purses. Also, check any other bags you might have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you would not normally look like the floor behind the table in front of the doorway or under the couch. If you've tried this but are still unable to locate your keys, you should seek help.
A locksmith should be able to replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is much cheaper than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new one.
In many instances, a locksmith can also cut and program the new key for more advanced types of automobiles, such as smart keys, switchblade keys and transponder keys. Some of these more complicated keys require you to provide the VIN number of your car, but a locksmith will be able to cut and program the key in a flash.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. Doing it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace keys that are lost in your car and give tips on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Preventative measures such as keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car key again.