How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your favorite sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. But, you realize that your car keys aren't to be found.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however, the majority of they require a locksmith or dealer.
Check your car's locks
It's best to inspect your car first if you lose your keys. We often don't know the location of our keys, especially if we're distracted or are in a hurry. Fortunately finding keys to your car is relatively easy when you take the time to do a thorough search of your vehicle.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. The seats can be moved back and forwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car key. Also, check the small compartments or zippered areas to locate keys. You should also carefully check your backpack, purse, or tote bag, for keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs which allow you to lock and unlock your car remotely. They usually have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to purchase a new key fob if you've lost it.
Some older vehicles still have keys made of metal that fit in 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 evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
You can also purchase an upgrade from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealer will need to connect a computer chip for your car. This could cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim it to cover the cost of a replacement key. Ask your insurance company whether you have roadside assistance coverage. This can be useful should you ever require it. There are many companies that offer roadside assistance packages. You should be able locate one close to you.
Verify the Identification Number of Your Vehicle (VIN)
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and 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 car or driver's side door jamb, and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like the registration of your vehicle title, insurance and title documents.
Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's best to keep it somewhere safe. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new key that is based on the VIN. Locksmiths can decode your VIN to locate the key code from the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label that's situated between the windshield and the dash on the driver's side. You can also look for it on the door jamb for the driver's side, or in front of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even written 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 analysis of your vehicle's model, manufacturer body type, engine size, assembly facility, and year of manufacturing.
VINs were first introduced in 1954, but until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. 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 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 in order to replace your key. If not, you can get standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could simply call your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Today, it's a lot more complex than it used to be. If you're in the market to have your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always your best option.
You can still get a traditional car key from a dealership, but it's best to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road quickly and will probably charge less than the dealership would.
Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, write down the vehicle identification number (VIN). This is crucial because it will be required to make a new replacement car key for your car. Read Significantly more is on the dashboard of your vehicle, or may be found in the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. However, this doesn't guarantee that they'll help you. It's dependent on the model and make of your car as well as whether or not the keys have complex programming. If you're unsure whether or not your dealership can help you, bring your vehicle in and ask to speak with the service manager.
If your smart key has been lost or stolen it must be replaced at the dealership. This is because the security features in your car require a specific kind of key to function correctly and reset.
This process is much more complicated than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to have this feature restored. A dealership can also give you a backup key that's similar to the one you have in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you choose to go this route ensure that you have all of the information needed including an identification photo. This will make it easier for all to complete the process.
Contact a locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing keys to your car that have been lost is to contact an experienced locksmith. An experienced locksmith will be able to cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, along with proof of ownership (a duplicate of your registration or title).
Make sure you check all possible locations for your keys prior to when you contact a locksmith. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you've used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you would not normally put them, like on the floor in front of the doorway table or under the couch. If you have done this and still cannot find your keys, you should contact a professional for assistance.
A locksmith should be able replace traditional keys on the spot for around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance tow you car to a dealership to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths can often cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys, or switchblade keys. These more complex keys might require that you provide the VIN number of the car however a professional locksmith should have the right tools to cut and program the key right on the spot for you.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged or bent keys which can happen when you accidentally lock them in your car. It is recommended that you leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can help you replace lost car keys and also give guidance on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping an extra set of keys at home or in your wallet, can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys again.