How to Replace Lost Car Keys

You're tired, so change into your favorite sweats and grab some pizza to watch your favorite TV show. However, you realize your car keys aren't to be found.

Know your options before you get in a panic. There are many ways to replace a lost car key however the majority of they require a locksmith or a dealership.

Check the locks on your car.

If you lose your keys to your car, it's recommended to begin by checking your vehicle. We often forget where we put them particularly when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding keys to your car may be fairly easy if your vehicle is thoroughly searched.

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

Many modern cars have key fobs that let you lock and unlock the car from a distance. These devices usually have an internal chip that connects to the car to allow you into the vehicle and start the motor. You'll have to visit your dealer to get a new key fob if you'i ve lost my car keys lost it.

Certain older cars still have keys made of metal that fit into an ignition cylinder. If you lose these keys, a locksmith may be able create keys for you if you have evidence of ownership such as your registration or title.

You can also get a new replacement from a dealer, but it will be more expensive. 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 to verify 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 pay for the cost of replacing a key. Additionally, it's worthwhile to ask your insurance provider if you have roadside assistance coverage that will aid you in the case of an emergency. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance packages and you will be able to locate an option close to you.

Check your vehicle's identification (VIN).

The vehicle identification number is an alpha-numeric code with 17 digits for each vehicle on the road. It is used to identify vehicles and keep track of inventory. It is also used to report accidents and thefts. In the United States, the VIN is typically an image or a plate on the dashboard of your car and the driver's side door jamb and sometimes, in front of the engine block. You can also locate your VIN in other places, including your vehicle registration, title and insurance documents.

It is important to keep your VIN secure because it's unique to you and your car. This way, should you should ever lose your keys, you'll be able to make use of it to get the replacement key made quickly and easily. Locksmiths can decode the VIN and retrieve the manufacturer's code for your model. This will work with your lock.

The VIN is usually located on a label on the dashboard of the driver at the point where the windshield joins it. You can also locate it on the driver's side door jamb or on the front of the engine block on larger trucks as well as other commercial vehicles. Some VINs are etched directly into the windows or windshields of your vehicle as a theft security measure.

Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with the complete information about your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model and make the body style, the engine size, assembly plant and the year it was made.

VINs first came into use in 1954, however, until 1981, they came in a variety of formats. 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 will be able to obtain new keys at most dealerships and automotive locksmiths, depending on the kind of key your vehicle 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 purchase regular keys from hardware stores.

Contact Your Dealership

It wasn't long ago that losing your car keys wasn't a big deal. You could easily call your local dealer and request a new set. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. The dealership might not be the best option if you need to replace the keys to your car that you lost my only car key.

You can still purchase a traditional car key from a dealership, but it is better to contact an auto lock. They will be able get you back on your quicker and at a lower cost than the dealership.

Before you contact someone to replace your car keys, write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is crucial because the person who needs it will create a replacement car key for you. The VIN is located on the dashboard of the driver's side, or it may be found in the owner's manual.

Dealerships can replace keys to cars for the majority of manufacturers. It is not a 100% assurance however. It all depends on your model and make, and whether the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. If you're unsure whether or the dealership you're dealing with can assist you, bring your car in and ask to speak with the service manager.

If you have a smart key that's been lost or stolen, you'll need to visit your dealership in order to have it replaced. This is because the security features of your car require a specific type of key to be reset and function properly.

The process is more complicated than it was in the past, so make sure you're prepared to pay a greater cost to restore this feature. If your original key is lost keys for my car or damaged the dealership will be able to provide you with an identical backup. If you decide to go this way ensure you have all the required information, including an identification photo. This will facilitate the process for everyone involved.

Call a locksmith

Calling a locksmith is the first step in replacing lost keys to your car. A locksmith who has experience will be able to program and cut a new key for your car while you wait. But, they'll require the year model, make and model of your vehicle as well as evidence that you own it (a copy of your registration or title will do it).

Make sure to look over all possible locations for your keys prior to when you call a locksmith. Check pockets on jackets, pants and purses. Also, look through any other bags that you may have used. You could also search for your keys in places where you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the doorway table or under the couch. If you've done this and still cannot find your keys, it's time to seek help.

For keys that are traditional, a locksmith should be able to replace them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your car to a dealership to buy a new key.

Locksmiths often program and cut new keys for cars that have 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, a professional locksmith has the right tools to cut and program the key in a flash for you.

Most locksmiths also have the ability to remove broken or bent keys which can happen when you lock them accidentally in your car. It is recommended to leave the removal of a broken key to a professional. Trying to do it yourself could result in further damage.

A locksmith can help replace keys to your car that have been lost and offer advice on how to avoid future keys being misplaced or stolen. The best preventative measures include keeping a spare set of keys in your wallet or at home can help you to never lose your car keys again.