How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted, so you change into your sweats and grab a slice of pizza to watch your latest TV show. You discover that the keys to your car have disappeared.
Before you panic, know your options. There are many ways to replace the car key that was lost, but the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.
Check the Locks on Your Car
It's best to check your car first when you lose your keys. We often forget where we put them especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately, finding lost car key s isn't difficult if you make the effort to conduct an exhaustive search in your vehicle.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Make sure to inspect every inch of the vehicle by moving the seats up and down, back and forward. Be sure to feel around small compartments and zippered areas for the keys, too. Be sure to check your backpack, purse or tote bag with care for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from the distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that communicates with the car to allow you access to the vehicle and start the engine. You'll need to go to your dealer to get an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Some older cars still have keys made of metal that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to create a replacement key for you if you have evidence of ownership, such as your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide the replacement however, it will cost more. The dealership will have to integrate a computer chip into your car, which could cost between $200 and $250 or more, depending on the make and model of your car.
Make sure you check your insurance policy prior to purchase a new car key. If you have coverage that is comprehensive you may be able to claim it to pay for the cost of replacing a key. Ask your insurance company if you have roadside service coverage. This can be useful if you ever need it. The good news is that there are numerous companies that offer roadside assistance plans, so you will be able to locate an option close to you.
Check your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is 17-digit numeric and alpha code that is unique to every 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 stamped on a label or plate that's attached to your dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or sometimes behind the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your car and it's recommended to store it in a safe place. If you lose your keys you can easily and quickly obtain a new one that is based on the VIN. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the manufacturer's codes for your particular model. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger vehicles have their VIN on a label that's located at the point where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the door jamb on the driver's side or on the side of the engine block on larger trucks and other commercial vehicles. In some instances it is possible that the VIN is even etched on your windows or windshields as part of a security measure to prevent theft.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a 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 production.
VINs first came into use in 1954 when VINs first appeared. However, until 1981, they were offered in various configurations. In that year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized them to the current 17-character format.
If your VIN number is correct, you can purchase new keys from many dealerships or automotive locksmiths depending on the type of key your vehicle requires. For instance, if your vehicle requires an ignition chip, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that can start your vehicle. In other cases, you can purchase standard keys from hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
Not long ago losing your car keys wasn't a huge deal. You could easily call your local dealer to purchase a new set. Today, it's a lot more complex than it used to be. The dealership may not be the best place to go if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost.
You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership but it is best to call an automotive lock. They will be able to get you back on your faster and for less than a dealership.
Before you call anyone to replace your car keys, make a note of the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is vital as it will be required in order for someone to make a new replacement car key for your vehicle. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be printed inside of the owner's manual.
Dealerships are able to replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, it's not a guarantee that they'll help you. It depends on the make and model of your vehicle 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 car in and ask to speak with the service manager.
If you have an electronic key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealer to get it replaced. This is because your car's security functions require a particular type of key to be reset and function correctly.
The process is more complicated than it was in the past be, so you should be prepared to pay a greater price to restore this feature. If your original key is damaged or stolen A dealership could offer you a similar backup. If you opt to go this way, make sure you have all the required information, including an ID photo. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Call a Locksmith
The most crucial step to take in replacing lost car keys is to contact locksmith. An experienced locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your car while you wait. They will need the year, make, and model of your vehicle with proof of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith's number However, you must ensure that you've checked every possible place where your keys might be. Check pockets on pants, jackets and purses. Also, look through any other bags you might have used. You can also look for your keys in areas that you wouldn't normally place them, like on the floor under a doorway table or under the couch. If you've tried all these methods and still are not able to locate your keys, then it's time for you to call someone.
For keys that are traditional locksmiths is likely to be able replace keys on the spot for around $20. This is a lot less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your 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 models of cars, including smart keys, switchblade keys, transponder keys, and switchblade keys. These more complex keys may require you to provide the VIN number of your car however a professional locksmith should have the right tools to cut and program the key on the spot for you.
Locksmiths are also able to ability to remove damaged keys that are bent or broken that can occur if you lock them accidentally in your car. If you attempt to remove a damaged key by yourself could cause more damage, and this is something that should be left to the experts.
A locksmith can help you replace keys to your car that have been lost and give guidance on how to prevent the possibility of keys being lost or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home will help you to never lose your car keys once more.