How to Replace Lost Car Keys
You're tired, so you change into your sweats and grab some pizza to watch your latest TV show. However, you discover that your car keys are nowhere to be found.
Before you panic, consider your options. There are many methods to replace lost car keys, but most of them involve the dealership or a professional locksmith.
Check the locks on your car.
It is best to look in your car first if you lose your keys. After all, we often forget where we put them, especially when we're in a rush or distracted. Finding lost car keys can be fairly simple when your car is thoroughly searched.
Start by sitting in the driver's seat. Move the seats back and forwards as well as upwards and downwards to check every inch of your vehicle for your car keys. Make sure you check zippered areas and small compartments for keys, too. Examine your backpack, purse or tote bag carefully for keys.
A majority of modern vehicles have key fobs that allow you to lock and unlock the 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. You'll need to visit your dealer to get an alternative key fob if you've lost it.
Certain older cars still have traditional metal keys that fit inside an ignition cylinder. If you lose one of these keys, it's likely that locksmiths are in a position to make a replacement key for you as long as you have evidence of ownership, like your registration or title.
The dealer is also able to provide the replacement however, it will cost more. The dealer will need to pair up a computer chip for your car. It could cost between $200 and $250 dependent on the car's make and model.
Be sure to check your insurance policy before you purchase the new car key. If you have a comprehensive insurance policy you might be able to claim on it to pay for the cost of a new key. Check with your insurance provider if you have roadside service coverage. This will come in handy should you ever require it. The good news is that there are now many companies offering roadside assistance plans, so you will be able to locate an option near you.
Verify your vehicle's identification number (VIN).
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is a 17-digit alpha and numeric code that is unique to every vehicle on the road. It is 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, the driver's side door jamb, and sometimes on the motor block. Your VIN can be found in other places like your registration for your vehicle as well as title and insurance documents.
Your VIN is unique to your car, so it's a good idea to keep it somewhere safe. In the event that you ever lose your keys, you can utilize it to have a replacement key made quickly and quickly. A locksmith can decode your VIN and find the key code of the manufacturer specific to your lock, which will then work with your lock.
The majority of passenger cars have their VIN on a label placed where the windshield meets the dash on the driver's side. You can also locate it on the driver-side door jamb or on the front of the engine block of larger trucks and commercial vehicles. In some cases, the VIN is even etched into your windows or windshields as part of a anti-theft measure.
Enter your VIN into an online VIN decoder. This will provide you with an in-depth analysis of your vehicle, including the manufacturer, model body type, engine size, assembly facility and the year of manufacture.
VINs were first used in 1954, but up to 1981, they were offered 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 valid, then you'll be able to get new keys at most dealerships and locksmiths for automobiles, based on the type of key your car requires. For instance, if you car requires an ignition chip you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith that can swap your key for one that will start your vehicle. You can also get regular keys from hardware stores.
Contact More Support wasn't that long ago that losing your car keys weren't a big deal. You could just call your local dealership to get a new set of keys made. Nowadays, it's much more complicated than that. If you're looking to have your lost car keys replaced, the dealership isn't always the best option.
You can still get a traditional car key from the dealership but it is best to contact an automotive lock. They're more likely to be in a position to get you back on the road fast and probably cost less than the dealership would.
Before calling someone to replace your lost car keys, write down the number of your vehicle identification (VIN). This is important because you will need it to create an alternative car key for you. The VIN is located on the driver's dashboard, or it may be included in the owner's manual.
Dealerships can replace cars keys for most manufacturers. However, this doesn't assurance that they'll be able help you. It is dependent on your model and make, as well as if the keys are smart or are complex in their programming. Bring your car to the dealership and request the service manager if are unsure if they can assist.
If you have a smart 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 features require a specific kind of key to reset and function properly.
This process is much more involved than it used to be and you should make sure you're willing to pay the additional cost to restore this feature. If your original key is stolen or damaged A dealership could provide you with an identical backup. If you opt to go this route ensure that you have all of the required information, including a photo ID. This will help make the process easier for everyone involved.
Contact a locksmith
Contacting a locksmith is the first step to replace lost keys to your car. An experienced locksmith can cut and program an entirely new key for your vehicle while you wait. They will require the year model, make, and year of your vehicle, along with evidence of ownership (a copy your registration or title).
Before calling a locksmith over the phone However, you must ensure that you have checked every possible place where your keys might be. This includes checking pockets in pants and jackets as well as purses and other bags you've used. You may also look for your keys in places you would not normally look for them, like the floor behind the table behind the doorway or underneath the couch. If you've tried all of these methods and still are unable to find your keys, it's time for you to call someone.
For traditional keys, a locksmith should be able to replace them on the spot for around $20. This is less expensive than having roadside assistance tow your vehicle to a dealer to purchase a new key.
Locksmiths often cut and program new keys for cars that have more advanced features, including smart keys, transponder keys or switchblade keys. These keys that are more complicated may require that you provide the car's VIN number however professional locksmiths has the right tools to complete this on the spot for you.
Many locksmiths are also able to remove keys that are bent or broken, which are often caused by accidentally locking them inside your vehicle. It is best to leave the removal of a broken key to professionals. If you attempt to do it yourself can cause further damage.
A locksmith can assist you replace keys to your car that have been lost and offer guidance on how to prevent future keys being misplaced or stolen. Prevention measures like keeping a spare set keys in your wallet or at home could help you to never lose your car keys again.