How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and are ready to put on your favorite sweatshirt, grab some pizza, and watch the latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Know your options before you get in a panic. There are a few different methods to replace lost car keys, but most of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
When you lose car keys, it's always recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. After all, we often forget where they're especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Finding keys lost in the car can be relatively easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.
Begin by putting your feet on the driver's side. Move the seats forward and backwards as well as up and down to check every inch of your car for your car keys. Also, feel around compartments with zippers or small spaces to locate keys. Also, be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag for the keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the car from an extended distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car key fob, you'll need to visit the dealership to have a new one made.
Some older cars still have traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of keys, it's likely that locksmiths are in a position to make a replacement key for you as provided you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
You can also get an entirely new replacement from a dealer, but this will be more expensive. The dealer must pair up a computer chip for your vehicle. This can cost between $200 and $250, depending on your car's model and make.
Be sure to check your insurance policy prior to purchase the new car key. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance plan to pay for the cost of buying a new car key. It's also important to inquire with your car insurance company if they have roadside assistance coverage that will help you in the event of an emergency. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance packages, so you should be able to find an option near you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (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 track inventory. It is also used to report crashes and thefts. In the United States the VIN is usually stamped on a label or a plate that is attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes in front of the motor block. You may also find your VIN in other places, like your vehicle registration as well as title and insurance documents.
It's important to keep your VIN secure as it is unique to you and your vehicle. This way, should you lose your keys, you can make use of it to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The VIN is usually located on a sticker on the dashboard of the driver's side in the area where the windshield meets it. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or on the front of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some cases there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of an security measure to prevent theft.
You can verify your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth look at your vehicle's manufacturer, model of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and year of manufacture.
VINs first came into use in 1954, but until 1981, they were available in a variety of formats. In the year 1981 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN is valid, then you'll be able to purchase new keys at most dealerships as well as locksmiths for automotive, based on the kind of key your vehicle requires. If your car has an ignition chip, you will require a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. If not, you can purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
A few years ago losing your car keys was not a huge deal. You could simply call your local dealer to get a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complex than it used to be. The dealership might not be the best option in case you want to replace your lost car keys.
Although you could obtain a traditional key from the dealership, the best option is to call an auto locksmith. They can get you back on the quicker and at a lower cost than the dealership.
Before you contact anyone to replace your car keys, note down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because someone will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is on the dashboard of your car or it could be found in the owner's guide.
Dealerships can replace keys for the majority of automobile manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll help you. It's contingent on the make and model of your car and whether or not the keys have complex programming. Bring your car to the dealership and inquire for the service manager if are unsure whether they can help.
If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to go to your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because your car's security features require a specific type of key to be reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was previously be, so make sure you're willing to pay a higher price to restore this feature. Dealers 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, make sure to have all the required information along with you and a photo ID. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Contact for a locksmith
A locksmith's call is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A reputable locksmith will be able cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. But, 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 do it).
Make sure you check every possible location for your keys prior to you call a locksmith. This includes checking pockets of jackets and pants as well as purses and other bags you may have used. You can also search for your keys in places you wouldn't normally look like the floor behind the doorway table or underneath the couch. If you've done this, but you are still unable to locate your keys, you should call for help.
For keys that are traditional, a locksmith will be able to repair them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than the cost for roadside assistance to tow your vehicle to the dealership and buy a replacement key.
Locksmiths are often able to cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, like smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. Some of these more complicated keys require the VIN number of your car, however a locksmith is likely to be able do it in a flash.
Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken, which can occur when you lock them accidentally in your car. replace lost key for car is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to professionals. Trying to do it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and offer guidance on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping a spare 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.