How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're exhausted and want to change into your favorite sweats, grab some pizza, and binge your latest TV show. You find that your car keys have disappeared.
Before you panic, be aware of your options. There are a variety of ways to replace keys for cars that have been lost however the majority of these require a locksmith or dealership.
Check the Locks on Your Car
It is best to look in your car first when you lose your keys. In the end, we tend to forget where we've put them especially when we're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately finding keys to your car is fairly easy when you take the time to conduct an exhaustive search of your vehicle.
Start with the driver's seat. The seats can be moved forward and back as well as up and down to search every inch of your vehicle for the car key. Also, look around small compartments or zippered areas to find the keys. Also, you should carefully search your purse, backpack, or tote bag for the keys.
Many modern cars come with key fobs that let you to lock and unlock your car from a distance. Usually, these devices have an internal transponder chip that communicates with the car in order to let you in and start the engine. If you've lost your car's keys fob, you'll need go to the dealership to get an alternative one created.
Some older cars still use traditional keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith could be able to make keys for you if you have proof of ownership like your registration or title.
You can also purchase a new replacement from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. The dealership must connect a computer chip to your vehicle, which could be priced between $200 and $250, or more, based on the model and make of your vehicle.
Before you pay for an auto key replacement be sure to check your insurance policy. You might be able to claim on your comprehensive insurance policy to cover the cost of buying a new car key. Additionally, it's worth asking your car insurance company about whether you have roadside assistance insurance that can help you in the event of an emergency. There are numerous companies that provide roadside assistance plans. You should be able locate one close to you.
Check Your Vehicle's Identification Number (VIN)
The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric number that is unique to 17 numbers for every vehicle that is on the road. It's used to identify vehicles, keep track of inventory, report accidents and thefts, as well as more. In the United States the VIN is typically a sticker or plate that's attached to your dashboard, driver's side door jamb, and sometimes behind the motor block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, such as your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
It is important to keep your VIN safe because it is unique to you and your vehicle. This way, should you lose your keys, you'll be in a position to make use of it to get an alternative key quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and get the manufacturer's code for the model you have. This will work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a sticker that's situated where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. It can also be found on the door jamb for the driver or on the side of the engine block of larger commercial and truck vehicles. In some instances there are instances where the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields to provide an security measure to prevent theft.
You can check your VIN by entering it into a web-based VIN decoder. This will give you an in-depth report on your vehicle, including the model, manufacturer of the body, type of engine, size, assembly facility, and year of production.
VINs first appeared in 1954, when VINs were first introduced. However, until 1981 they were available in a variety of configurations. In 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration standardized their format to the current one of 17 characters.
If find more is valid, then you'll be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the type of key your car requires. If your car is equipped with an ignition chip, you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer to replace your key. You can also get standard keys at hardware stores.
Contact Your Dealership
It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't an issue. You could contact your local dealership to have a new set of keys made. Today, it's more complicated than it used to be. If you're in the market to get your car keys replaced, a dealership isn't always the most ideal option.
You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership, but it is better to call an automotive lock. They can get you back on the quicker and at a lower cost than the dealership.
Before you call someone to replace your lost car keys, write down the number for your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because someone will need it to create a replacement car key for you. The VIN can be found on the driver's side dashboard or included in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able assist you. It is dependent on your make and model, and whether the keys are intelligent or have complex programming. If you're not sure whether or your dealer can assist you, bring your car to the dealership and request a chat with the service manager.
If your smart key has been lost or stolen, it will need to be replaced by a dealership. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to reset and function properly.
This process is more complex than it was in the past be, so you should be prepared to pay a higher price to restore this feature. A dealer can also give you another key that's identical to the original in case your lost one was damaged or stolen. If you choose to do this ensure you have all of the necessary information, including an ID photo. This will help everyone to get through the process.
Call an expert locksmith
Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing keys for your car that have been lost. A reputable locksmith will be able to cut and program the new key for your car while you wait. But, they'll require the year, make and model of your car along with evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title should do it).
Before you call a locksmith's number, though, make sure that you have checked all possible places where your keys could be. Check the pockets of jackets, pants and purses. Also check any other bags you may have used. You may also look for your keys in places you might not normally go for them, like the floor behind the table behind the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of this and are still not able to locate your keys, it's time for you to call someone.
For traditional keys, a locksmith will be able to repair them on the spot for about $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance transport your car to a dealership to buy a new key.
Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including transponder keys, smart keys, or switchblade keys. Some of these more complex keys require the VIN number of your car, however a locksmith should be able to cut and program the key on the spot.
Most locksmiths also have the capability of removing broken keys that are bent or broken which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is best to leave the removal of a damaged key to a professional. If you attempt to do it yourself could result in further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and provide tips on how to prevent future keys from being lost or stolen. Taking preventative measures, such as keeping a spare set of keys at home or in your wallet, can help in ensuring that you don't lose your car keys ever again.