How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so you change into your sweats and order a pizza to watch 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 many methods to replace lost key to my car car keys however, the majority of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.

Check the locks on your car.

If you've lost your keys to your car, it's best to start by checking your vehicle. We often don't know where they are, especially when we're distracted or are in a hurry. Finding keys to your car may be fairly simple if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

Start with the driver's seat. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your car for the car key. Be sure to look around zippered areas and small compartments for the keys, too. Also, you should carefully search your backpack, purse or tote bag for keys.

Many modern cars have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. These devices typically contain an internal chip that can communicate with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and then start the motor. You'll need to go to your dealer to get a new key fob if you've lost it.

Some older vehicles still use traditional keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths are able to create a new key for you, as long as you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.

The dealer may also offer an alternative however it will cost more. The dealership will need to connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could cost $200-$250 or more depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to deciding to purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim on it to cover the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This could come in handy should you ever require it. The good news is that there are now numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages which means you will be able to locate a service 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's unique to each vehicle on the road. It's used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report thefts and crashes. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or a plate that's affixed to your dashboard, driver-side door jamb, or sometimes in front of the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, cost like your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.

Your VIN is unique to your vehicle It's recommended to store it in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you can quickly and easily get a new key that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.

Most passenger cars have their VIN on a label located where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the driver-side door jamb or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. Certain VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle to serve as a prevention measure.

You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you the complete information about your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make body style, engine size as well as the assembly plant year it was made.

VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, up to 1981, they were offered in different configurations. In 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.

If your VIN is correct, then you should be able to get new keys at the majority of dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer in order to replace your key. You can also get basic keys at hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't too long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could call your local dealership to get a new set of keys made. Today, it's more complex than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best option if you need to replace your lost car keys.

While you can certainly still purchase a traditional key at the dealership, the best choice is to contact an automotive locksmith. They're more likely be able to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership would.

Before you contact someone to replace your lost car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because it will be needed to make a new replacement car key for your car. The VIN is located on the driver's side dashboard, or it may be included in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of car manufacturers. It is not a 100% assurance however. It depends on the model and make of your car as well as whether keys are equipped with complicated programming. Bring your vehicle to the dealership and ask for 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 have to go to your dealership for it to be replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a specific type of key to reset and work properly.

The process is now more complicated than it used to be, so be sure that you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. A dealership will also be able to provide you with another key that's identical to the original in case the lost key was damaged or stolen. If you decide to go this way ensure you have all the information needed, including a photo ID. This will help everyone to get through the process.

Call an expert locksmith

The most crucial step to take in replacing lost the car key car keys is to call locksmith. An experienced locksmith can cut and program the new key for your vehicle while you wait. However, they'll need to know the year and make of your car along with evidence that you own the car (a copy of your registration or title will suffice).

Before you call a locksmith over the phone, though, make sure that you have checked every possible spot where your keys may be. This includes checking pockets in jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you might have used. You may also look for your keys in places that you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are struggling to locate your keys, it's time to contact someone.

A locksmith should be able to replace lost key for car traditional keys on the spot, at a cost of around $20. This is less expensive than the cost to have roadside assistance take your car to a dealership and buy a replacement key.

Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars with more advanced features, like transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the VIN number of your car however, an experienced locksmith will have the tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Many locksmiths can also take out broken or bent keys that are usually caused by locking them in your vehicle. It is recommended to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.

In addition to helping you replace keys that were lost in your car locksmiths can also offer advice on how to avoid keys from getting misplaced or stolen. Taking preventative steps, like keeping a spare set keys at home or in your wallet can make a huge difference in making sure you never lose your car keys again.